Being An Experienced Parent Takes Some Of The Edge Off

We gave Ian his first bath last night.  I remember the nightmare that was Elliott's first bath.  I thought he was drowning.  My mother-in-law was there at the time and I remember finding it odd, if not troubling, that she was smiling through the entire experience.  Given the situation, I thought it might be more productive for her to go fetch a throw rope or a life jacket for our poor boy, or at the very minimum, dial 911.

I now know that was just a smile that comes with experience.  She knew then what I would come to know, that Elliott would one day love his bath time.  Today when you say it's bath time, Elliott sprints down the hall in excitement, his little upper body as stiff as a small branch and his legs rolling like a bowling ball headed for a strike.  Having been blessed with the opportunity to witness this transformation in Elliott, I myself could smile a bit last night when I watched Ian struggle.  I know one day soon I will treasure the many hours of night time splashing with Ian as much as I currently do my time with Elliott.

Today was Katie's first day at home alone with Ian.  I'm sure some of that same "experience" effect took the edge of the day off of her.  They both looked well rested when Elliott and I got home tonight.  Some of the looks of that were probably deceiving, but they are both doing great.  We thank God that he has helped see us all back to healthy conditions and pray that he'll  guide us as we continue to gain experience.