Highs and Lows

Today (and the past couple days for that matter) have been filled with highs and a few lows.  Madeline has had separation anxiety for several months that has increased over time.  My motto on caring for Madeline is (with the exception of Mom, Dad, or Grandmas), "it's all fun and games until someone tries to touch her."  Talk to her all you want.  She probably won't smile, but she won't scream either.  She doesn't even like kids to touch her very often.  This has started to impact her bedtime/naptimes.  Sleeping is one problem we have managed to avoid thus far.  Now, all of the sudden, Madeline does not want to go to sleep.  If I go up while she is crying, she immediately stops until I leave again.  As soon as the door shuts, back to the wailing.  That has been a bit frustrating.  I know I should let her cry it out, at least for awhile, but it isn't easy.  I plan to try to make an effort to leave her alone because no amount of my comforting relaxes her enough to maintain the comfort after I walk out of the room.  Ok, enough about the lows.

So guess who sat up unassisted for the first time today?  Ok, I guess no hints are necessary!  Miss Madeline can now sit with her arms down on the ground for a few minutes!  What luck that Alex walked into the door just as she did it for the first time.  And believe it or not, she didn't even fall over when I yelled to him to run and grab the camera!

And now for more great news!!!  I am taking my first trip away from the baby since she was born.  I am going to NYC to visit my brother for 2 days.  My parents will also be going for an anniversary trip, as well as my good friend Grant, her mom (and close family friend Debbie) and Grant's fiance, Sam.  I am so psyched to see everyone together again and eat at some fabulous restaurants.  We are going to Craft (Tom Colicchio's restaurant) and another place called Staton Social.  I am REALLY, REALLY grateful to Alex for being willing to stay home alone with the baby.  I am nervous about leaving her because of the separation anxiety, but I think it will help me be a better mom because I will be more energized to take care of her!