Introduction
It's been quite a journey navigating Riku's attachment to breastfeeding. As the days inch closer to my due date with our second baby boy, Miku, I can't help but feel a mix of excitement and worry about how Riku will react. Mason has always been there for us, assuring me that everything will be okay. But as any mother would understand, it's hard not to have those nagging concerns in the back of your mind.
The Stubbornness
Riku is nearly two years old now and he strongly believes that breast milk is the only sustenance he needs. It doesn't matter what delicious meal I prepare or how many times Mason tries to coax him into eating solid foods - Riku simply refuses anything other than breastfeeding. His stubbornness has become a source of both frustration and concern for us.
Endless Cries
I wish I could say that his refusal was limited to just calmly declining food options presented before him; unfortunately, it goes beyond that. Whenever we try to offer something other than breast milk, Riku breaks down into tears - loud wails echoing through our home as if we were committing some unforgivable sin by denying him his precious liquid gold.
Seeking Reassurance
Mason and I have spent countless hours discussing this issue late at night when all is quiet except for the occasional sound of little feet padding across the hallway floorboards outside our bedroom door. We've tried seeking reassurance from friends who are parents themselves but found little solace in their anecdotes; every child seems different in their own unique way.
Daddy Knows Best
Through all these worries swirling inside my head like an endless storm cloud threatening rain on an otherwise sunny day, one thing remains constant: Mason's unwavering love and support for both me and Riku.
A Caring Husband
His caring nature never ceases to amaze me. From the moment we found out about our second pregnancy, Mason has become even more protective over Riku and me. He's always there to lend a helping hand, whether it's changing diapers or soothing our little one during those late-night bouts of teething troubles.
The Reassurance
Whenever doubts creep into my mind regarding how Riku will handle the arrival of his baby brother, Mason is quick to reassure me that everything will be alright. His words hold a sense of calmness and certainty that I can't help but cling onto in moments where anxiety threatens to consume me entirely.
A Mischievous Toddler
Riku may be stubborn when it comes to food, but he also possesses a mischievous spirit that brightens up our lives on even the darkest days.
Clinging for Comfort
There are times when Riku clings onto me as if I am his entire world - wrapping his tiny arms around my legs whenever I attempt to leave the room or insisting on being held tightly against my chest while watching cartoons together. It warms my heart knowing just how much he relies on me for comfort and security.
Daddy vs Mommy
And yet, amidst all this adoration for mommy dearest lies an interesting dynamic between father and son - one where Riku makes sure everyone knows who holds priority in his eyes. Whenever Mason tries to step in as daddy should, Riku boldly proclaims with an innocent smile plastered across his face that I am only his mommy; no rivalries allowed here!
Sibling Worries
Underneath all these adorable antics lurks another worry: What if Miki takes away from him? Will he feel neglected or unloved? These fears keep resurfacing no matter how many times we assure ourselves otherwise.
Assurances from Dad
But once again, it is Mason who steps forward with unwavering faith in our little family's strength. He reminds me that Riku is a resilient child, capable of adapting to change just as any other toddler would. Together, we can create an environment where both brothers feel loved and cherished.
Conclusion
As I sit here, my swollen belly cradled between my hands while the soft kicks of Miki remind me of his impending arrival, I am filled with hope and determination. Yes, there may be challenges ahead as we navigate through Riku's attachment to breastfeeding and the introduction of a new sibling into our lives. But with Mason by my side - loving father extraordinaire - I know that together we will overcome every obstacle thrown our way.
In this crazy journey called parenthood, it's not about finding all the answers or having everything figured out; it's about embracing the unknown with open arms and trusting in love to guide us through.
And so, dear journal entry, I leave you here for now until another day dawns upon us with its own set of trials and triumphs. Until then...