Am I a Stranger?

A few weeks ago, I went on a trip for about a week to see my parents and brother. Usually, my kids miss me, but they still have a lot of fun having Mommy-time. My newborn was a new factor in this equation and when I came back, I think he forgot who I was. It’s like I was a stranger.

Initially, I couldn’t hold him for long periods of time before he started to cry. Before the trip, I could hold him as long as I wanted (within reason, he gets tired and cranky of course!). I had a bond with him early on since he didn’t just want Mommy (like my two other kids did). After the trip, it’s almost like he didn’t want anything to do with me. The only time he would let me take him was on a long walk or hike in the wrap. At least he would sleep in the wrap and relax.

It took a week or two, but eventually he got more familiar with me again. Maybe part of it was that he was getting so aware that he was also communicating his preference for Mommy (which I am definitely used to after three kids). At least I get some large chunks of time where my newborn has fun with me or lets me hold him. After two crazy newborns, I’ll take this go-around where I can take him around by myself. I’m sure this is what a normal-ish experience feels like and it’s great!