Alex vs. T. Rex

Before this week I'd say he didn't have a chance. But, given his newly discovered mobility, perhaps he could get away from T. Rex (especially since T's not really mobile these days either). Alex can now "scoot" -- propel himself with his legs backward (while on his back).

This picture is from the Museum of Natural History. Probably a much better museum for when he's older. He just didn't appreciate the fossils. But, there was a wonderful exhibit with the national wildlife photography winners. It was much more crowded than the National Gallery (modern wing). Here's where my son has taste. As we wandered through the contemporary art (think Jasper Johns), he let loose a number of his high-pitched squeals of delight!

Culture and More

For the past few days I've been trying to give you some insight into life around the "manhold" (i.e., with me on paternity leave with my son, it's no longer a household--but a manhold). I'll usually wait for Alex to finish his morning nap and feeding, then we'll do the day's outing. Today we took the Metro to the National Museum of the American Indian. Alex sacked out, but I toured really interesting exhibits on Native design and "Our Lives: Contemporary Life and Identities." Then, we'll usually goof around in the afternoon on his activity mat. Here's young Alex in his "Let's Party" onesie, after he somehow worked his burp cloth into a bandanna.

Take Your Baby to Work Day

Well, not really. But I did stop all productivity at Education Sector when I took Alex for a quick office visit today.

I Want...To Pump You Up!

It's not all art museums and warm milk for Baby Alex. I'm making sure that he gets in a daily workout:

Our Future Botanist?

An absolutely stunning day in DC. Storms cleared out the humidity and we've been left with a crystal blue sky, mid 80s temperatures, and a cool breeze. Alex and I took advantage of the day to trek down to the US Botanical Garden. It's still very sunny, so we stayed inside the conservatory to give Alex some shade. It is spectacular. They've re-created numerous plant habitats, including a jungle with mist and tropical rains. The jungle, along with a vine covered pathway, were his favorites.

Dad Takes Over!

On Monday, I started my five week paternity leave and assumed the role of "primary care giver." I'm really lucky to be able to spend this time with Alex. So far, we've had a wonderful time -- National Portrait Gallery (pictured) yesterday and the National Gallery of Art today. Alex is a huge fan of the Portrait Gallery, especially the newly renovated building (the stained glass ceiling is a big winner). Surprisingly, he didn't much respond the the impressionists at the National Gallery (he was dozing off). But, the Rodin sculptures were a big hit. More on the "museum a day" paternity leave tomorrow...

A retrospective on the twilight of my maternity leave

On my last day of maternity leave, I would like to thank a few of the people who have helped make it a wondrous, joyful and highly educational 3 months:

First came Dee Dee, who turned on a dime to arrive 18 hours after Alex's birth and did yeoman's duty for the first two weeks of his life. Here he is showing this grandmother of two girls how little boys are different.

Then came Senior and GrandTerr, who welcomed their first grandbaby with great food and lots of cuddles.

Then Aunt Lauren provided excellent parenting tips (and even a playmate for Alex!)

And, of course, highest kudos to Bill. He has been an ideal spouse and dad -- sharing the entire journey with me...even taking over when I most needed help.

There have been many more: friends arriving with food, colleagues sending warm notes and relatives from across the country sending very generous gifts. Thanks to you all from the bottom of my heart.

Ocala Babysits

Caught in a grandparent bonding moment...

Vikas' Wedding

We had a wonderful time in North Carolina for the wedding of Vikas and Neha. It was the first time we've been out for an entire weekend as my parents came to watch Alex during the festivities.