Hanging out with little J
Being a single parent suits me in many ways. However, I don’t like to do everything alone with J—it’s not good for either one of us. It’s an ongoing process to organize things for/with J and others, and I am pleased with the steps I’ve taken recently.
Yesterday, on a local parenting listserv, I saw that a neighborhood non-profit is hosting holiday photography sessions. I have been wanted to have pictures of J and me taken, but hadn’t managed to organize it yet. I had a brainstorm when I saw the posting and emailed two of Julia’s “aunties,” one of whom I’ve know for over 20 years and the other for 15 years. I asked the aunties whether they would be part of the 30-minute photo shoot with us so we can have pics of J alone, with each of us individually, and as a group. Both of them got back to me right away and were VERY enthusiastic about the idea. It was really touching. So now, we have an appointment in a little over 3 weeks to get our photos taken.
Also, over the weekend, we took a trip to a local indoor play space that’s open Sunday mornings from Oct through April. It was a great success—the toys were plentiful and clean, the other parents were friendly and there were fresh delicious bagels provided. For once, I didn’t feel that the other parents were clicque-ish, rude, or self-satisfied; I had some interesting conversations with very nice people and J enjoyed it tremendously. She saw another toddler from her daycare. They wheeled around the doll stroller, shopping cart, toy vacuum cleaner and then played with the toy circular saw/drill press. She topped it off by walking up and down the four steps in the corner and stealing other kids’ bagels (oops!) Overall, I’m feeling much better than I did a few weeks ago. There are rocky moments every day, but it’s generally very rewarding. For example, after the playspace while we were eating lunch I said to J, “remember, this morning we saw S. Wasn’t that fun playing with S?” J said, “Yeah.”
I think that that was the first exchange we’ve had that involves J’s opinion about another kid. I was excited.
November 10, 2011 at 2:10 am
You’re volunteering to have your picture taken? Who are you and what have you done with Cranky?
November 10, 2011 at 12:52 pm
I need to have a decent photo or two of me with J. Last year H took some good ones. This year I look atrocious in all photos I’ve seen.
November 10, 2011 at 12:52 pm
I was thinking the same thing. Hope we get to see the results!