Emmy Goes To School

Unlike myself, Emmy LOVES to draw attention to herself :-P.  There are places where that's appropriate and others where other people don't find it very cute.  I realized that there is only so long that I can acceptably use the excuse that I have a baby at home as a reason to duck out of child-unfriendly engagements.  So, I decided it was time to put aside our separation anxiety, and open our minds to childcare, or as I like to think of it, "school," for those really necessary appointments.

Given my weekly summons from church service to comfort my sobbing baby, my hopes weren't exceptionally high for this new push for "school."  Despite the urge I have to stay home to avoid the (Emmy) tears, I have reminded myself of the importance and so we've kept trying.  Finally, two weeks ago, Emmy lasted the entire service while in the care of Miss Debbie (who, thankfully, "has Emmy's number.") This success gave me a bit more confidence and a wonderfully rejuvenating church experience.  God knew that I needed it!

This past Sunday, Emmy's good mood lasted into the night as she hung out with all the other kiddos and babysitters during my church small group gathering!  I was hugely pleased, especially because we weren't finished until two hours after her typical bedtime (6:15 pm).  She kept it together until we got into the car, at which time, holy H-E-double hockey sticks broke loose.  To her credit, she handled the separation part really well.

My girlfriend, Lindsey, was telling me over breakfast last week about the pre-school class that she and our friend, Jill, lead for the one year olds.  She also informed me that they have some vacancies, and in an effort to fill those spots, the director is welcoming babies under one years old for drop in care!  I took Emmy for a trial play time the next day.  As I handed her over to Lindsey, the baby whisperer, she didn't so much as look back at me!  An hour and a half and a trunk full of groceries later, I returned to a happy Emmy girl!  Lindsey shared the pictures below from Emmy's first day at "school!"  She must've been reading my mind when I was wishing to be a fly on the wall.

Today came the granddaddy of all separation tests. Emmy had to go to the childcare on Post while I knocked out day one of my two day, ten hour, FRG Leader training.  (I am nine months into the job and I put it off until someone noticed.  What are they going to do? Fire me?)  Five hours later, I walked into the door to find my happy girl playing with the other babies.  I think my heart swelled with joy.  I really, REALLY hope that I didn't just jinx tomorrow...

Now I need a break from breaks from my baby...I miss my girl.

Emmy playing with her food.

Emmy and Dane, buddies from church group!

I can't help but smile each time I look at this picture!