I had some pretty big plans for my maternity leave. I really wanted to go out and make some memories with Mary. But when I was in the thick of it, I was reminded that maternity leave really is necessary to heal, bond with baby and, well, sleep whenever possible. SO, we really only went on one adventure - to the Shedd Aquarium.
I am a creature of routine, especially when it comes to Mary (and now Pearl). I was taught that kids need structure and routine, and I have found that it really works and good behavior ensues when Mary knows what to expect. Wake up at this time, nap at this time, dinner at this time, PJs, TV, stories, then bed. So when there is a day that routine is messed with and she may miss a nap - I am the one that gets stressed. I'm sure in some way this rubs off on my kid in some negative way, but I'm working on it.
Brian and I were at Starbucks and bumped into an old friend who has a son Mary's age. He was talking to us about how they took the kids to Italy for two weeks...huh, well if their kids can survive a trip to Italy, I think I can manage a day trip to the Shedd. Still, when the day arrived, my neurosis kicked into high-gear. Did I have enough snacks, I wanted to bring water, but not too much, so Mary would have an accident, extra panties/pants in case there is an accident, activities/snacks for the car, will Pearl be comfortable, will she sleep, will she nurse, will she have a poopy blow-out...This is what keeps me up at night.
That morning, Brian assured me it would all be okay - "What's the worst that could happen?" in my head? My old tires could blow out and while on the side of the road we could be hit by an 18-wheeler like that family on the news...Welcome to my dark side, what happens when I step out of the comfort of our routine - outside the Mommy box
Up until the morning we planned to go I was thinking of excuses why we shouldn't, but none of them were as compelling as the thought that Mary is going to L-O-V-E this day.
So we went and she loved it and is still talking about it and giving us Dolphin shows. Mary napped in the car on the way home and was in bed early and we all lived. Am I ready for Italy, most definitely not. But we (I) did it, and I'm so glad we did.
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| Mary, Brian and some sharks. |
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| Mary during the dolphin show, I'm not sure how much of the actual show I watched, I just enjoyed her happy face |
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| Family pic with Chicago skyline |
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| Dolphin tank - they would swim so fast by you! |
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| Beluga whales - they actually rubbed against the glass! |
