June 2014- In like a lion, out like a lamb

June came in like a lion and went out like a lamb... sort of. Let me explain. At the beginning of the month, when Teddy was only five weeks old, Ben left on a business trip for five days. I don't think it's an exaggeration to say that I almost lost my mind while he was gone. Teddy was super fussy day and night and I had no one to hand him off to. He was waking up every 1.5 to 2 hours consistently during the night and it made me a zombie. A cranky, crazy, zombie.

However, a few things saved me. First, my friend Dennine let me borrow an infant swing. I was very anti-swing before, however it helped ease his crying and gave me a break when I needed it. I will no longer judge mothers who use swings. Then, Heavenly Father was watching over me. On Saturday I felt so alone and depressed so I prayed, "Heavenly Father, I can get through this weekend if someone will just invite me to their house for dinner tomorrow" (unfortunately I was too proud to ask someone for help). Anyway, the next day at church my friend Jana approached me. She knew Ben was out of town and asked how I was doing. I was such a mess- I couldn't even smile and lie. In the middle of the hallway I burst into tears. She quickly told me that I was invited to her house to dinner and that she would take Teddy third hour so I could have a break.

Jana didn't get the chance to take Teddy third hour because our dear friend Art Park saw me crying and came to take Teddy. Teddy fell right asleep and Art rocked him in the hallway the whole third hour. He was my hero that day.

Jana was also my hero- she didn't have any plans for dinner but invited me anyway. When I arrived at her house, she took the crying Teddy and rocked him to sleep while I ate. Then as he slept Nayeli played with her kids. I loved our ward before this experience but this specific Sunday I fell in love. It is so full of good people willing to serve and help others. I feel so taken care of and loved here. I will be so sad if we ever have to leave.

But then Ben arrived home Monday night and was, of course, so sorry he had been gone. And then everything got better. Teddy started crying less, I had someone to switch off with me when I couldn't take it anymore, and my best friend was once again by my side.

My growing boy. He weighed 14 pounds at his two month appointment.

My treasures

 

Nayeli found the whipped cream tupperware and the rest is history.

Ready for Sunday, complete with a bowtie

 

I am a human jungle gym

And just for a little extra enjoyment, here's a clip taken while Ben was out of town. (note: I misuse the word pontificate in here. I meant punctuate... but it was 5pm and I had just woken up from a nap. Just sayin').



As June settled down we had two visits from Ben's mom Jane. We had a great time while she and others were here and even went out to the coast at the end of the month (post to follow soon). And the best way to end any month is to go to the coast. A wonderful end to a crazy beginning.