Stats and Health

Natalie currently weighs 10 lbs 6 oz, which is in the 75th percentile. And she measures 22.5" long, which is in the 90th percentile for her age - tall girl!

We are glad to finally allow her to sleep as much as she can during the night (usually 4-5 hours before she wakes up hungry). Before, we had to wake her up every 3 hrs to eat (because of her weight-gain problem). But she obviously is doing fine now, given her current weight.  :)   We are still supplementing formula every 3rd feeding, though.

I forgot to write earlier that we gave-in after 1 week and gave her a pacifier (most of the literature I've read suggests waiting until after nursing is established, generally 1 month or so). Sucking is a major comfort for Natalie, and we tried letting her suck our finger instead (poor Brian slept next to the bassinet one night with his finger in her mouth so she could sleep!), but our pediatrician (and other resources) said pacifiers are fine to use if she's done feeding and just wants to suck, or if she's fussy and no other calming techniques have worked. Speaking of which, Brian is the master swaddler! Overall, he does a much better job than I do at putting Natalie to bed, or just comforting her in general. :)    The 5 "S's" work great! (Swaddling, laying on Side/Stomach, Swinging/bouncing, Shushing (white noise), and Sucking). She has recently found her fingers and enjoys sucking those on occasion.

Natalie has also had 2 visits to the chiropractor so far. I wanted to get her checked out for any damage that may have occurred to the nervous system in her neck during the birth process. I mentioned that she has difficulty nursing on one side, and after a simple and light adjustment she is now nursing better!  :)   Chiropractic care can also help prevent/treat ear infections, reflux, and other not-fun stuff that newborns deal with. Plus, it's done wonders for me the past few years!

And to wrap things up, here is a cute video of her playing with her toys!