Our *current* new normal

Whenever there is a big change in family or just life in general we often have to find a new normal.  Humans are creatures of habit and something like a new baby throws all these habits and patterns out the window.  Even when a new baby is completely "normal" and healthy life gets turned on its head.  Having done this whole new baby thing before I was feeling fairly well prepared for this upheaval.  I figured there would be some jealousy and acting out on the part of Mr. E, I knew I would be tired and emotional, I counted on the increase in laundry, and the mess in my house.  But I didn't count on becoming a nurse of sorts.

I had planned for messy diapers, even blowouts, and spit up (I stocked up on oxy-clean products and laundry soap)-- but I didn't plan for something more on the opposite end of the spectrum.  I didn't plan on a colostomy and having to learn to clean and change the bags for this.  I wasn't prepared for the extra time it would take to empty the bag at diaper changings and then cleaning and replacing the bag every couple days.  I wasn't prepared for the crying and distress it would cause Baby J as we hold him down and clean and change his ostomy.

But now we have a new normal.  I feel I have mastered the diaper changes and emptying of the bag.  I have figured out how to dress him without pulling on it too much.  I have mastered the art of sponge bathing.  And I can now say I can successfully clean and change a colostomy bag that will stay on for at least 48 hours with and without help.  Mr. E has come to accept that Baby J is here to stay and has started to try to help by getting binkis, throwing away diapers, and trying to sooth Baby J when he cries.  I have found a way to make sure that Mr. E gets one-on-one time that is all about him while Baby J sleeps.  Mr. E is back on his old schedule (mostly) and Baby J is finding his own groove too.  So I guess you could say that we have found a new normal, at least for now.