Six weeks.

We have been home three weeks now and James and Ivy continue to thrive. At the last weigh in about two weeks ago, both had put on 1kg and were nearing the 3.5kg mark. Ivy unfortunately has had severe reflux and is on medication which is easing her pain somewhat.  James is such a placid easy-going guy and just loves to sleep.  They are both sleeping five to six hours through the night, which is just wonderful, particularly when it can take a while to settle Ivy down after a feed. 

To be totally honest, I am not sure how I would have coped if James had the same severity of reflux as Ivy.  It is incredibly taxing to try to soothe a little one and feeling the stress of seeing the pain in her eyes.  It can also be frustrating as there are many times when there is simply very little you can do to help.

In saying all of that, there is nothing that compares to being a Mum.  If there was ever any doubt as to how I would bond with my babies after being carried for 37 weeks by someone else, these were expelled immediately after birth.  I am loving the responsibility that comes with being a Mum and the emotional attachment that I have to these little humans.  It is so intense at times and when I look back pre babies, I understand now the huge void that existed in my life. 

They are very sweet, and of course they are smiling, talking almost walking because they are the most super-human babies ever.  Ivy will certainly be the strong-willed one and James will do whatever he's told, unless he's really annoyed, then all hell will break loose.  The cats have adapted well, except for one, who thinks there's a howling tomcat just around the corner whenever Ivy cries!  I have decided to feed James & Ivy individually during the day when I'm home alone, only by about 1/2 hour and by the time it's time for night sleep, I have adjusted so that they are feeding evenly.  Ivy loves her feeds and I can adapt her feeds to fit in with James, who needs his routine.  I find feed time very special and I just love holding and devoting my time solely on whomever I'm feeding.  I did try the simultaneous feed, but found this just was not for me.  It does mean that I do very little during the day other than feed, clean and settle my babies, but I figure everything else can wait in order of priority!

I still cannot believe that one year ago we had made our first trip to India.  It has been a remarkable journey and the last eight weeks have really been etched in my mind as the best in my life.

Ivy Margaret May

Ivy in her new outfit

James doing what he does best

First day home - with my darling nephews

James' cat's bum face