Lessons From a Newborn

It has been awhile since we have done a blog post primarily because our lives have been a little busy lately! On July 13th, we welcomed our sweet baby boy, Samuel (Sam) Thomas Redenius. Now that Sam has been around for a few weeks, we are all beginning to adapt to life with a newborn. While we are a little sleep-deprived, life with Sam has been so exciting. We'd like to share a few lessons we've learned from a 6-week old that may apply to your life, too. (Photo credit to Stewart Memorial Hospital)

Here are some lessons we've learned:

1) Eat when you are hungry and stop when you are full. Sam definitely loves to eat, but he also knows when to stop. He has more will power than his mommy, for sure.

2) Gaze at everything with wonder. Sam could be looking at a rock, and he looks at it as if it is the most engaging thing he's ever seen. His curiosity is refreshing, and we think everyone could use some more child-like curiosity and wonder and awe in their life. Sam has taught us that even the smallest details are worth noticing. Currently, he loves going outside and looking at the leaves on trees.

3) Speak up for what you want and need. Sam definitely isn't afraid to let us know when he needs something, even if it is just to be snuggled. As we get older, we sometimes forget to take care of ourselves. We've learned from him that it is important that you speak up for what you need in your life and then take time to take care of it.

4) Smile. Have you ever seen a newborn smile for the first time? It is one of the most wonderful things you will ever see. Smiling is such a simple act that we forget to do. Sam could have had the worst night--keeping mommy and daddy up all night with him--yet he always smiles in the morning. Seeing Sam smile is a good reminder that no matter what the circumstance, a smile can make it a little better.

5) The human body is amazing. Having Sam has reaffirmed our belief that the human body is amazing. Going through a natural childbirth allowed us to really learn what the human body is capable of doing. Watching Sam grow SO quickly in such a short amount of time reminds us of how much our bodies grow, develop, and change every day. We are all miracles!

We hope you all have had a wonderful summer! Just a reminder that with the new school year comes harvest season, athletics, and cooler weather! Remember to stop in to get regular adjustments to make sure you are the healthiest you can be!

Have a great week!

Dr. Jeff and Jenny Redenius