Has it been six months already? I can’t believe it went by so quickly. It was only yesterday that Cristian was born. I’ve enjoyed being a Dad but I’m still learning—I’ve only been on the job six months. I thought about submitting a self-evaluation form like the one you fill out before your annual performance evaluation at work, but Cristian’s reading and writing skills are still non-existent maybe next year. Esther hasn’t come home from work to find the baby with any new dings or dents so I guess that’s something.
I’ve learned a lot since we brought Cristian home from the hospital, some were common sense and others were on the job training. Through it all Esther and I still look at each other in amazement unable to believe this adorable baby is ours.
Here are a few highlights of what I’ve learned so far:
- My Son is a Diva — Cristian chose his first pediatrician appointment to get the hang of breastfeeding, making the doctor wait while he gave Esther privacy. He then peed on the doctor during the examination. The doctor, an old pro, avoided most of the spray impressing me with how fast he could move for an older guy. I’ll say this for the kid, you gotta admire his spunk.
- Don’t Ask Me How He’s Sleeping — Cristian sleeps well, although I did take him a few months to get the hang of it. He usually sleeps from 10pm until about 5am except when someone asks how’s he sleeping? For some reason that phrase upsets the balance ruining the baby’s sleep pattern, and more importantly, his mom and dad’s sleep for three or four days. I know our friends are curious but please stop asking, a good night sleep depends on it.
- There are Never Quick Trips to Pick Up Something for the Baby — I quickly learned whenever Esther says ”Let’s make a quick trip to Buy Buy Baby or Carters to pick up something for the baby, there is nothing quick about it. I keep an emergency bag in my car similar to those found in fallout shelters. It’s packed with water, snacks and my tablet. Esther knows where to find me sitting in a chair where they sell baby furniture while she shops.
- My Son is a Chic Magnet — I always knew babies drew attention, just not how much. Every time I take Cristian outside he instantly attracts good looking women. It doesn’t matter if we are at Starbucks, Target or the post office it’s like they are drawn to his stroller like I attached a magnet to it. Of course I’m a happily-married man who doesn’t notice these things. I thought Chico was good but this is unreal.
- My Son is a Peacemaker — Since Cristian was born, we’ve reconnected with relatives we haven’t seen in years. He’s also helped with our neighbors. Everyone has that strange neighbor, the one, who never says hello and always looks like she’s sitting on a pinecone. She now says smiles and says hello and sings to Cristian in two languages whenever she sees him. I didn’t know she spoke English, much less a second language. Go figure.
- My Son Likes Busty Blondes — Maybe he gets this one from me. Women stopping by to see the baby received the type of attention that gets adult males called into Human Resources office at work for a little chat. I remember how excited he became when a very well-endowed blonde friend stopped by. Maybe he thought she was the milk truck.
I’ve learned a lot over the past six months watching my son grow from a fragile newborn to the cute chubby-cheeked baby he is now. His smiling face every morning makes me forget the sacrifices and the sleep deprivation. I’m sure there are a few challenges ahead, but for now I’m enjoying the moment.
