The last few days have been a little crazy. Packing for three weeks in a totally different climate and preparing for a 15-hour flight with an almost nine month-old baby have taken up all my energy and mental space.
Aside from the staple oversupply of diapers, milk formula, wipes and outfit changes, my diaper bag and handcarry contains various odds and ends designed to entertain an active infant: pink fluffy pompoms, crinkly foil wrapping paper, a pair of fabric coasters held together with Velcro, a rattle and a squeaky rubber giraffe. I can’t say I’ve ever traveled like this before.
After all the preparation, I think we’re as ready as we can be. In a matter of hours, Marlon and I will be in the air with our wriggly little babe and all we’ll be able to do is pray and wing it.
Then we’ll be home for Christmas.
Parols in Las Pinas, photo by my sister
I would be lying if I said I wasn’t dreading a few things. The heat and humidity are the least of it; malling as a primary leisure activity and baby jetlag (let’s play from 2am to 10am!) are somewhere in the middle; traffic, parking and so much time spent in a car are the worst. Being confronted with these things makes me realize how much our lifestyles have changed living here.
But then I think of Tala finally meeting Marlon’s side of the family, of my mom and sister’s excitement at being with her again, of her baptism, of her being introduced to a circle of people who love her beyond just Mama and Papa.
I think of Razon’s halo-halo and Mary Grace ensaymada, of National Bookstore and Landmark, of Uniqlo and Muji. I think of singing at Simbang Gabi with my Ateneo Chamber Singers family, of vitamin D coming FROM THE SKY (not a bottle!), of having an abundance of people to watch over her while Marlon and I get some time to ourselves. I think of El Nido (!!!) for our sixth wedding anniversary and I think… well, that’s got to be worth it. Right?
Here goes. Deep breath in… wish us luck, and see you in Manila!
P.S. Know any great places to eat and to go with a baby? Leave a comment and I will be eternally grateful.
