Mary Wavinya – ‘We will become great friends’

Mary graced pregnant issue 9 cover. Her baby boy, Javan Kitangana (Pictured with her), was born on 6 October 2007.

Motherhood has been challenging because I now have two baby boys who are both a handful— my eldest son is five years old. When I went back home after delivering Javan, his eldest brother always seemed to be in competition with him.

He would always want to either be breastfed or bathed at the same time as the baby despite his age. But as time went by, he learnt to let go and give his brother space. Javan loves breastfeeding a lot, especially at night.

He would cry a lot

I faced the greatest challenge with my baby during his first three months when he had colic. He would cry a lot and although I was still in pain after the C-section delivery, I had to personally soothe him since I did not have a househelp. It was very difficult for me to maintain my calm at the same time! To cap it all, I had to perform my usual household chores. It was a very frustrating time for me.

The most difficult task I am faced with right now is weaning Javan. He does not like porridge: and yet this is what most mums prefer to first wean their babies. In order to help him stay healthy, I prefer feeding him on natural food instead of processed ones.

I loved my baby’s first bathing experience and he enjoyed it too. He loves bathing and laughs all the way. That has been easy for me to go about.

I am planning to help my baby develop a strong personality, through constant communication. If I have to discipline him, I will tell him why I am punishing him. I know we will eventually be great friends.

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