One of the best things about maternity leave has been spending time with Tristin. Funny how the leave should be all about Bella but the truth is, the focus is really on T. Every morning, the two of us have our time together -- be it participating in music/dance classes, going to the little gym and climbing ladders, exploring new parks, playing in at the Discovery Museum or the Academy of Sciences -- the world in the Bay area has become our little oyster to explore and indulge.
Additionally, where I can, I am back to reconnecting with some great moms who are either off or are taking are of their kiddies full-time, and as a result, Tristin has been busily forced to participate in endless playdates. In many ways, its a GREAT thing because at age 2 (and given that he doesn't attend daycare), he is not keen on sharing and playing with others and this is my opportunity to get him exposed to the newfound concept. It hasn't been easy -- at the first sight of a guitar or a moving car or a snack he wants (which tends to be any snack any other toddler is consuming), he needs to have it or he will kick and scream. So much so that sometimes I need to pack a huge variety of snacks (and keep my fingers crossed that the one kid that decides to eat in front of him isn't sporting a snack I don't have!) and an extra guitar.
Classes/things he's loved to do:
- Dance/music class -- he loves loves loves. The teacher thinks he's musically inclined (or maybe she just said to me so I would sign up for the class) and while others are shy about moving, Tristin has no qualms getting into the center of circle and following the teacher in addition to adding a couple of his own moves and singing. It's quite funny and cute. Will have to see if the trend continues.
- Discovery museum - If ever in SF with a toddler, this is the place to go. It's amazing. Every exhibit is full of activities to do and things to learn. I can't say enough good things about it and we've been there twice and have yet to discover all of it. I guess that's why its called the "discoverrrry" museum.
- Little Gym -- Initially, thought this was going to be a bomb since Tristin refused to move from the one spot in the gym right next to the balance beam and kept telling me that the balance beam was his "piano, mommy!!". But then....he emerged from his cocoon of shyness and started exploring all the little activities and equipment and voila, he couldn't get enough. His favorite -- playing basketball with the little hoop (he loves playing with his ball) and jumping (he can't get enough of jumping). If you like Gymboree, you'll love Little Gym (its Gymboree but better!)
Playing with the cash register
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