Socialization

Hi Beebs,

Last week I took you to a play group. There were lots of women there with their babies- all different ages. You never hang out with babies except for the occasional visit with Kieran, so I thought it was time to get you used to other little folk.

I wasn't very comfortable doing this, and so it helped that Aryn and Kieran were there too for the first time. We came in and set you kids down with toys. I felt very awkward just sitting there smiling at other moms. The kids that were mobile were moving around and toys started passing from mouth to mouth. Moms started talking and I tried to get involved in some conversations. An older baby took your toy and you cried. I felt very protective of you and had to resist my urge to grab the toy back from her. You weren't curious to explore with the other babies so I let you sit and watch and play. I know when you are older you will be more active and aware of the other children, and I hope you learn to stand your own with them. My heartstrings are going to be yanked at from every direction watching you navigate relationships as you grow up. I was surprised at how strongly I felt at the smallest slight of your toy being taken away, so it's going to be a long path of mama bear instincts for me.

A day or two later you woke up pretty sick, and it continued for almost a week after. I think this is the sickest you've ever been. I am sure you picked up something from one of the babies at the group. I have been feeling incredibly reluctant to go to another play group like that... perhaps we'll meet some new friends at the playground when the weather gets warmer.