First Foods

The baby-lead weaning looked so promising, but Squeak (as I've started to call the baby) had other plans. Even at six-months, grasping the food and moving it to her mouth was a big challenge. She did want to eat though. Red foods are especially interesting, and she's attempted to sneak strawberries from plates that were too close.

I was sad to learn that strawberries aren't good baby food. When she's closer to age two, she can have strawberries. And tomatoes. Without being aware of it, I'd been day dreaming about teaching little Squeak to pick tomatoes and strawberries out of the garden next summer. Next summer will have to be devoted to flowers, walks, and playing in the sprinkler.

My sister was visiting when Squeak had her first food -- the traditional rice cereal with breast milk. Having aspired to  eating for several months, Squeak looked delighted to have food in her mouth. She insisted that the food delivery continue uninterrupted. When the spoonfuls of food don't arrive quickly enough, she grunted and flapped her arms. This baby loves to eat.  My mother, father and sister all helped feed her the first meal. Sharing the love of a baby with your own loved ones is such a deep connection. I never would have anticipated that our family would grow closer over this.