According to my most un-scientific research, the question of "How is she sleeping" is the third most popular question one is asked when carrying a baby. The first being, of course, "Is it a boy or girl?" (Of course it is a girl - my boys never wore so many ruffles, butterflies, strawberries or flowers in various shades of purple and pink.) The second is "How old is she?" (Today, 6 weeks and 3 days, although normally I just answer "6 weeks")
So why is it that the sleeping question is so popular? Of course, when my Mom or a good friend asks, I know it is because they are concerned about my sleep - directly related to how much sleep Amanda gets. But, we were at the grocery store yesterday and the stranger behind me in line asked the question. Now, she could not possibly be concerned about my lack of sleep. Why would she care? What is her motivation? Maybe she wanted the opportunity to brag about how wonderful her babies were who slept through the night at 2 weeks. Or possibly she wanted to commiserate about the children she had who did not sleep for a full year. Or maybe it is just an attempt to make a connection with a stranger. Everyone who has had children knows what it is like to lose sleep on account of a newborn.
So, whatever your motivation, in case you have that question on the tip of your tongue next time you talk with me, here is the answer:
She is sleeping great for a six week old. We put her down around 8:00 and, after some protests, she generally falls asleep until 2:00. If I remember to put her back in her bed after that feeding, she will sleep until 6 or so. I'd say that's a good night sleep!
Oh, and if you are wondering, the fourth most popular question is "How much did she weigh at birth/How much does she weigh now?" As I haul her in my sling, I guess people want to know how much weight I'm carrying. Her 9+ pounds only account for half the weight. On the other shoulder is her diaper bag, a bag for Andrew and my purse. No need to go to the gym to lift weights around here!
