Sigh.... part timers.
I find that they take easily twice as long (maybe even more, depending on circumstances) to adjust. I am sure that you are doing everything right. I agree that it's time to start cutting back on picking up and cuddling, since you won't have the arms for it pretty soon. I have a little guy (part timer!) that needs a fair amount of assurance throughout the day, and I have begun "hugging" him, kind of against my legs, if he is whimpering. I reserve the holding snuggles for when he gets hurt or a little quiet time before nap (everyone gets a snuggle and a song before they lay down).