3 Weeks - Two steps forward, one step back

I think I have finally accepted that this kid is running the show. As much as I could have learned before hand, and as much as I think I know now, it changes everyday. What worked yesterday means nothing today. There is no rhyme or reason, no routine yet. So I venture on, trying my best to meet the little guy's needs, and trying not to be crushed when he continues to cry despite all  my efforts.

This week felt like we took a giant step backward when I got mastitis. It's a breast infection that is super painful and feels like the flu. With some strong antibiotics I am now hopefully recovered, and can try to get back on track.

Oliver is still a fan of sucking his thumb, which I am more than happy to help him out with. We've also discovered he likes loud sustained noise, and I now use the vacuum to make him stop crying (a trick that supposedly also worked on his Gram when she was a baby). He is alert more often and has smiled at my smile a few times...which is worth more than anything in the world to me. He's also enjoying more tummy time and has turned his head over a few times. He seems to be getting bigger every time I look at him.