DNA Tan

Baby Rei is better...

For months, we have battled with Baby Rei's sleep disorder on a daily basis. Apart from his erractic sleeping patterns, his constant tantrums is also something we have to put up with. Nobody knew I have developed a phobia for my very own flesh and blood as I couldn't decode what his crying meant. I felt worse when I realised I was incapable of satisfying his needs, whatever they were. Rei was a sleep-sensitive(termed by his sleep therapist) and a high-need baby and that left Jerrimie and I seriously drained. Frankly, I would have collapsed of exhaustion and insanity if it weren't for Jerrimie who gave me temendous support during this period. Perhaps its because Jerrimie isn't related to baby Rei and that makes her better able to handle the situation. Me, on the other hand, is too affected emotionally to take good care of Rei. So, for months, I relied heavily on Jerrimie.

However, there's a price to pay for everything. As Jerrimie spent a large number of hours pacifying Rei, she wasn't able to complete her chores on time,not to mention that she's dead beat when Rei eventually falls asleep. Even then, her sleep would be highly interrupted as Rei is unable to sleep soundly. I feel bad about leaving baby Rei to sleep with her but hubby thought it is better for me, emotionally.

Baby Rei is presently more predictable in his sleeping patterns and is more tuned to 'normal' sleeping hours. He is able to sleep through the night, waking frequently to latch. Even then, I'm contented, as compared with his wakefulness whole night long topped with his crying marathon. Maybe Im getting too ambitious, Im weaning him off his cradle simultaneously and he's sleeping with me on the bed whole night, by my side. I feel good and is gaining more confidence in handling my baby myself.

To hubby, thank you for building up my confidence as a Mummy when you have seen it crumbling. To my family, forgive me for my frequent quick-temper as my despair and frustration took over my rationality. To Jerrimie, a huge thank you for being with us, you are truly a wonderful helper.