Swordplay.net

Big few days for the Sweet Pea. Lots of firsts. Seventeen new pictures added to the gallery.

Tara and Ellie went to a La Leche League meeting on Wednesday. I think Tara found their approach to be a little over-the-top, even if we agree with most of their advice. The group leaders seemed rather inflexible in their views of “proper” nursing and childcare practices. Nonetheless, I think Tara found the experience useful. It was good to be reassured that we haven’t been doing anything horribly wrong. Also noteworthy, this was the first time Mom and Baby spent any length of time together alone away from home. Everyone survived.

The next day, emboldened by the previous day’s adventures, we attempted another first. The three of us went out to eat at a restaurant. It went quite well. Ellie slept for a while, but then started fussing once the food arrived. Tara was able to discreetly nurse her while continuing to eat, herself. There might have been a little curry sauce dribbled on the baby. I plead ignorance.

On the following day, not much happened with Eleanor. But I actually went in to work for several hours. It was the longest I had been separated from her since coming home from the hospital. I found myself missing her much more than I thought I would. :(

Then today, both Tara and I went out for a few hours while Nana Betty and Grandpa Bruce babysat. Again, it was surprisingly emotional. We are just so used to always having The Little Wriggler with us at all times. But we know it is good for us. And Ellie did wonderfully with her grandparents. Plus it was nice to be able to walk around outside doing adult things. Even if it was just running errands, eating lunch, and doing our taxes. Wee.

Tomorrow is the last part of our whirlwind of activity. We are going to Great Grandma’s house out on Long Island to celebrate Great Uncle Stu’s 50th birthday! It should be fun. And this will be, by far, Ellie’s longest journey. In fact, this will be her first time leaving New York City. She did leave Manhattan twice to go to the Bronx. Once for a doctor visit, and once to shop at Target. But tomorrow will be her first journey outside the confines of the five boroughs. I hope it isn’t too much of a culture shock for her!

Joel Baby, Life