Perks

Over the past few days, I've become aware of more cool things about being a parent. Here they are:

1. Line fronting. Anyone will let you "front" them in line. Grocery stores, clothing stores, Target (the mother of all stores). Anywhere. And it's not "Native American Fronting" which was popular among grade school age children during my glory days and referred to by a different title. It's straight up 'you go first' fronting. I like that! And...it gives Jack someone to look at behind him while he's sitting in the buggy.

2. Baby Life Vests. That's right. If I didn't have Jack now, I wouldn't even know that they make life preservers for children less than 30 lbs. Jack and I went to Boater's World this afternoon in search of a life jacket for him to have when we go on the boat. The guy at the store suggested that Jack would probably be into the "Child" jacket (which starts at 30 lbs) in another month or so. He said this even after I told him he currently weighs 20 pounds. Holy cow, that guy thinks babies gain 10 pounds in a month or so! Needless to say, we found a vest for Jack's size and it was so funny. Poor kiddo was up to his ear in flotation device rolling around the floor of Boater's World.

3. Baby smells. Jack's room has a distinct scent to it that is wonderful. Probably all thanks goes to the great invention of the Diaper Genie. You can't describe it the scent. I wish you could bottle it. It's just the smell of Jack and it's yum-o.

4. Conversation with strangers. No matter where you are, there's at least one baby lover around you. This person will usually seek you out and talk to you. It's nice to have conversation with someone while John's ordering the food or you're trying to occupy a fussy 7 month old.

So, parenthood is amazing. Jack just had about the most adorable 20 minute exchange of bubble blowing, lip-smacking (his newest trick), babbling with John and me. He's always the best before bedtime. I wish you all could see it. Hope you're all doing well!