We Are Now Entering a New Stage...

Motherhood, & I guess parenthood in general, is full of learning opportunities. It is like going back to school all over again. Everything you knew or did before has changed. Simple things like going out, taking a nap, checking your email, eating dinner...all has an art form now. Then, just when you think you have got a routine down that works for everyone, your baby/child develops more & you need to adapt & possibly learn a whole new routine. Luckily, I enjoyed school & was always a person excited about learning. However, I get much more nervous & anxious now than I did in school. I actually feel more pressure now than I did with teachers & grades...hmm...that is a bit odd. It is probably because as a parent, you put so much love & care into this small little person & her whole life basically depends on you, that well, of course you want her to be healthy, happy & safe.

Anyway, about a week and a half ago, we entered a whole new stage with Riley Mae. Grandma Mills & I went out to lunch with Riley. She was wide awake, so there was no chance she would just sit quietly in her car seat while we ate. We asked the restaurant for a highchair. They brought this creaky really old fashioned one, but it worked. Since Riley is sitting up pretty well now, we thought we would try her out in it. She is still a bit small though, so we had to add blankets on either side. People loved seeing her. They smiled; we smiled; she smiled. Luckily I had a couple of toys with me that entertained her for awhile. Oh, that is the other part of the stage she is in - grabbing for stuff. We now have to clear all dangerous, messy or otherwise non-baby objects, out of her reach. It is more work, but really fun to watch her change & want to explore. Here's to more spills & the baby-proofing that is to come!