Babywearing

It may sound silly, but one of my favorite things about having babies has been being able "wear" them around with me. The house, the store, the office, for a walk, etc. It all started with the Moby Wrap. A little complicated to put on, but not too bad once you get the hang of it, and totally worth it once baby is in. I also have a Snugli that someone gave me, similar to the Bjorn, but these things kill my shoulders, even though they are quicker and easier to put on than the Moby. Now with #2, babywearing is essential to get through my day. Don't know how esle I'd get Asher (or myself) some lunch, change his diaper, yada yada. I mean, I could do it without holding the baby if the timing is right and she's napping. Or if I don't mind listeneing to screaming in the background. Don't get my wrong, Mills does have some great quiet, alert time when she just hangs out, but babies like to and need to be held! And not to mention that mommies (and daddies) need to get things done sometimes. Insert babywearing.

My love for babywearing grew this Monday when my dear friend Kelli offered me her sling. I've seen them in magazines and read about them (and their recalls), but I'd never seen anyone wear one. I was surprised how easy it was to put on and get baby into. And the comfort- for her and me! Both arms were free, but my right arm had complete freedom as there was not a strap or anything wrapped to it at all. I've been in love ever since. I did read up on slings and the big recall that happened this past summer. Babies have suffocated in them apparently. But really I think it's just one of those things that was used improperly in those cases or the parents wasn't as aware as they should have been. On the plus side, one study I read said slings were the best type of carriers because they put the least amount of stress on a baby's spine and lower back. Carriers in which baby's legs hang out tend to not support the baby's lower back and spine very well. At least that's what they say. At any rate, I think baby carrying in any fashion is an awesome and convenient way to stay connected to your child and practial for everyday life. Mama's who stared this movement thousands of years ago had the right idea! Love it. Love it. Love it.

Here we are now:




Super cute isn't it? She's pretty zonked cuz it's bedtime, but she does spend some awake time in here too, taking it all in from a front row seat. Millie even got to walk up to Panera today tucked under Mama's coat while Amy pulled Robby and Asher in a wagon through the snowy streets. What an adventure girl!