Sleeping like a Baby

All I can say to the expression, "Sleeping like a baby" is 'ha! I guess you have never had a newborn!' One thing I never knew is how incredibly loud babies are when they sleep. This is apparently normal and we shouldn't check on them with every sound. However, in the beginning I think every new parent does. I know I did! However, after a month, I have learned what sounds are the ones I need to check on her with and which ones are just her stirring. Well, I haven't perfected it but it is definitely getting better. There are several articles suggesting that you listen for the sounds and then wait to see what happens. Sleeping is very important to babies and I have tried to do a little bit of investigation - cause, you know, I want her to sleep through the night soon. =) According to BabyCenter.com

Baby sleep cycles are far shorter than those of adults, and babies spend more time in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which is thought to be necessary for the extraordinary development happening in their brain. REM sleep is lighter than non-REM sleep, and more easily disrupted.

The Mayo Clinic basically suggests having a routine...to which I also say ha! I have been trying to get into a routine for awhile now and that isn't happening. I am not forcing it because there is just no point. I will start trying to get her into one after 6-9 weeks. In any case, I did find this article that gave some useful sleeping info on it...while I am up at 2am. =)