...I was carrying the car seat. There's something awkward and burdened about the way you walk and feel when you carry one. It's not feminine or even un-manly. It's not the instant branding that comes with carrying a diaper bag. It's just not natural.
Perhaps technology has progressed since this '97 model, but it's nearly impossible to feel graceful, at ease or even in control when you are lugging the car seat. Arm extended slightly, 22 lbs. of baby and plastic banging against your right leg. Baby forming an odd fulcrum. Jostling, unsteady. Imagine it from their perspective. A giant is holding them at arms length, laboring, as they swing back and forth and bump. It is an odd gait the giant walks. Short step, big step, bump. Short step, big step, bump. That's when it hit me.
It wasn't that it was mid-day on a weekday. It wasn't diapers or bottles or playdates or laundry or homework or not showering. I didn't feel self-conscious of neighbors glancing out the window -- day off again? maybe one of his kids is sick? meeting the furnace guy? wait, is he Home?
With a capital H.
Yes, Home. Last time was more transitional, this time is more intentional. I'm well aware that not everyone would choose this. Also, aware that many would love to have this opportunity with their own kids. I'm grateful on both counts and plan to use this forum to share some thoughts and experiences. Short step, big step, bump.
Perhaps technology has progressed since this '97 model, but it's nearly impossible to feel graceful, at ease or even in control when you are lugging the car seat. Arm extended slightly, 22 lbs. of baby and plastic banging against your right leg. Baby forming an odd fulcrum. Jostling, unsteady. Imagine it from their perspective. A giant is holding them at arms length, laboring, as they swing back and forth and bump. It is an odd gait the giant walks. Short step, big step, bump. Short step, big step, bump. That's when it hit me.
It wasn't that it was mid-day on a weekday. It wasn't diapers or bottles or playdates or laundry or homework or not showering. I didn't feel self-conscious of neighbors glancing out the window -- day off again? maybe one of his kids is sick? meeting the furnace guy? wait, is he Home?
With a capital H.
Yes, Home. Last time was more transitional, this time is more intentional. I'm well aware that not everyone would choose this. Also, aware that many would love to have this opportunity with their own kids. I'm grateful on both counts and plan to use this forum to share some thoughts and experiences. Short step, big step, bump.
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