Thank you guys for the support and suggestions on my Mama Instincts post. It's a little hard to be so open about doubting myself or being unsure of what I'm doing as a mom, but it's all part of learning! Jacob is doing a lot better, with just a little lingering cough left. Elizabeth suggested that I look into pulsatilla as a possible natural remedy for his clingyness. Goodness, did Pulsatilla ever describe Jacob! Pulsatilla is both a flower and a mood in children. Pulsatilla babies need a lot of constant reassurance and to constantly find security in their moms. They will cry when the mom gets up to get a glass of water, wash dishes, or do anything that is not holding them. This was exactly how Jacob had been acting for the past month and a half. He was fine when we went away for Christmas because there were a lot of cousins and distractions, but as soon as we got back home, he was extremely clingy again. It wasn't a whiny clingy-ness, it was a scared grasp for me. He would not be ok with me sitting him down in front of me to play instead of on my lap, he wouldn't sleep unless he was latched on to my breast, and would not be comforted by Josh. I was used to Jacob being a smiley, playful, and semi-independent boy, so this threw me for a loop. I was also not able to get anything done (a common problem for moms of pulsatilla babies) since he was always in my arms and I'd have to lay down with him during his naps. Sounds scared him a lot, too- a car driving by outside would send him crawling to me as fast as he could, crying.
We went to his naturopath last Friday and after hearing me list off these symptoms, she also brought up pulsatilla. A sure sign of pulsatilla is the child's fussiness clearing up when they are outside, which is exactly what Jacob did. She suggested we try pulsatilla pellets for a few days. Oh.My.Word. It was almost instantly a night and day difference. Jacob slept for 5 hours in a row that night, alone in his crib! He is back to playing near me but not needing to be in my arms. Yesterday, he fully entertained himself for the first time ever! He tore up the living room playing with blocks, books, and instruments while I sat on the couch knitting. It kind of blew my mind. He is also TAKING REGULAR NAPS now. Every day. For longer than 30 minutes. I'm slowly getting accustomed to having a couple of hours a day to myself and having a chance to get things done around the house! My arms and back are getting a nice break, too. Most importantly, Jacob is back to his crazy and friendly self again, smiling and saying hi to everyone he sees!
he is too cute! glad it's worked out for the better. being a first time mom is not easy, your learning as you go and even if you have other children it's still somewhat new because of different personalities, but you've had more practice. i listen to a show called new life live with some counselors i respect ( have read many of their books, they are great) and one of them calls first time parents kids, crash test dummies because seriously it feels that way. i had many moments where i cried from not knowing what to do with Zoe, especially when she was 2 & 3 years old. she was quite the strong willed child. now she's my little laid back teenager. we ave had our moments here & there now that she's a teen but nothing like i was, i was a crazy teenager. it's the healthy teenage stuff like growing up and finding your identity apart from mom.
ReplyDeleteyour doing great because your seeking out, learning and getting advice. i feel the worst parents are the know it all's who are not even connected with their kids. those who feel their way is the right way no matter what. i've gotten through because parents before me have imparted their wisdom upon me, good books and God's gracious guidance :)
What a cutie! I'm glad you are finding a solution that is working for the whole family! Hopefully it keeps working and you both can keep enjoying his new peaceful independence!
ReplyDeleteHow interesting! I am so glad you found a solution. I might have to mention this to a friend of mine who has been having similar issues.
ReplyDeleteOh, you made my day! I am so happy the pulsatilla worked for your little mister. It is the best thing ever. Before I knew about it, I felt like a was a terrible mom...my son wouldn't play alone, or he'd cry all the time and goodness napping was the worst. So, I was blessed when I heard about it and I'm truly happy that it helped you. You're a great mom, enjoy you're happy boy and you're much needed breaks.
ReplyDeleteI'm SO glad you found something that helps! My two little ones are acting a bit that way these days, but I think it's just due to traveling. I wonder if it would help though!
ReplyDeleteYEs! We've used pulsatilla, and it does help...with many many little "things" and gripes the babes have.
ReplyDeletehooray for pulsitilla!! :) also, your mama looks so familiar. i feel like i have met her before!
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet boy. So good to hear that the pellets are working well for him!
ReplyDeletehello! i just discovered your blog today and wanted to say hiiii and THANK YOU for writing this post. i feel like this is my son EXACTLY and while i would love to practice more natural remedies, i'm afraid i never really took the time or invested in learning (or seeing alternative doctors). this is sooo goood to know. lovely little blog you have! <3
ReplyDeleteHe is just so adorable. I like the animal toon cappie. He looked cute even more.
ReplyDeleteKat @ christening invitations