mom says...

Some of you might wonder whether I know how lucky I am. Yes, yes, I know. Though, I have this sneaking suspicion from pictures like this that Josh will NOT be playing the part of bad cop.

You get all sorts of advice about parenting when you no longer can hide that protruding belly; the best one I got was from a colleague who first planted the idea of Josh taking a bonding leave. Prior to that time, we never even thought to consider it, which seems sad in hindsight particularly given my profession. I hope Josh has inspired other men to take advantage of the law that permits fathers to take 12 weeks to bond with a newborn -- http://www.dol.gov/esa/whd/fmla/ -- yes, unpaid (except for some subsidy available in CA -- http://www.edd.ca.gov/fleclaimpfl.htm), but you can't put a price tag on what you've been reading, can you?

First night ever with Hannah and no Josh. So far, the girls are doing ok. The little miss ate 4 ounces then 2 more, and wanted to sing many songs with mom before enjoying a massage and calling it a night. (Melissa, tell Chris you need a massage with that brandy). Dad already has checked in and passed on advice from his driving buddy - also a new proud father -- to give Hannah some water to help with constipation from starting solids. Posts from my mothers' group archives also seem to confirm this advice, particularly with the Organic formula we've been using to supplement. Yes, I've not let Josh write about the fact that I've started the weaning process because it's filled with inexplicable emotions and guilt that come in waves when I least expect it. Don't you worry, I'm not about to use the blog for therapy. I bought a pair of new sandals and two pairs of fabulous boots, so I'm all good.