Solo Solo

Solomon is learning to spend time not being held. Typically, he requires direct attention or cuddling to be happy. Most of the time, holding him and staring at the wonder that is my boy is the only way I want to spend my day. However, there are things that need to be done and hauling laundry (or enter your favorite/least favorite chore here) while wearing Solomon in the Bjorn is a tad hard on my shoulders and back. Plus Solomon needs solo time for his development. Solomon's not so much into the swing. The record was 37 minutes, but he was sleeping for 29 of those, so I'm not sure it counts. Usually he's done with the swing in 5-10 minutes. Today was 7. Still, it's time by himself. And when I say "himself" I mean I'm sitting at the computer four feet away, but at least I'm not touching him. (Note: Scott hates this photo because Solomon's eye is crossed. Sorry.) He also spends some "alone" time in the bouncy seat. This is usually during my shower and again, I'm less than four feet away. I have become queen of the four-minute shower, as I am ever nervous that as soon as I get soap everywhere, Solomon will cry and I'll need to jump out. This would be more of a sacrifice if we hadn't turned the water heater down to barley tepid. My kindgdom for a hot shower. Another part of helping Solomon be on his own more is getting him to self soothe. This includes sucking his thumb/fingers/entire fist. The idea here is that he doesn't rely on Mommy to get him a binky. I heard recently that studies show that children who suck their thumbs have no more orthodontic problems than children who don't. Solomon doesn't control his arms very well yet, so the only time his hand stays near his mouth is when he's lying on it. Still, it's a start.