The Carrier

December 2008--some random morning, just hanging out.

Before we went to China, I did some serious researching about baby carriers or slings.  I knew it was something that I wanted to use, but since the Noodle was going to be older when we got her (20 mo.), I was in a bit of a quandary as to what to do, since many carriers were geared more towards younger children.  Then I started hearing about the Ergo baby carrier.  I was intrigued.  This carrier is designed more like hiking equipment so the weight of the child is evenly distributed, but is centered around your waist, rather than their weight pulling on your shoulders/neck.  It was also made to accommodate toddlers and even preschoolers.  Perfect!!

Day-tripping in China.

Site-seeing in Hong Kong

Whenever we went out somewhere we put her in the carrier.  The selfish part of me (and J) loved having her so close to us--what more perfect way to smother her in kisses and cuddles?   She was always ready and eager to go in.  I think quite honestly she loved the feeling of closeness, security and protection, especially in those early days. 

Christmas 2008--trying to settle a "wild" child.

Feeding her baby a bottle.

Once we arrived home, we kept using it.  Around the house, at the grocery, to church...you get the drift.  Many times when she was fussy or upset or even getting "wild", I'd pop her in and she'd settle down.  In doing my research on carriers, I also did quite a bit of learning regarding "baby-wearing" and "kangaroo care".  You can google these to learn more, but basically the idea is that the most natural place for a mother to have her child, is right there with her.  I wanted to do whatever I could to help us bond and attach.  For our family, that certainly has been helped by the Ergo.  I know.  Rather granola-ish, but there you have it.

Heading out to the Farmer's Market.

As the Noodle has gotten older we've obviously strayed away from the Ergo.  We still pull it out, however when we're going to be somewhere with a crowd, and to this day, she still gets excited about "riding on Daddy's back".  Love that.  And considering that the recommended weight limit is 40 lbs (but has been tested up to 90 lbs!) she's still got 10 lbs to go, so I think we'll be seeing more of our trusty friend.  Let me tell ya, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, double heart LOVE my Ergo. Can ya tell?  They don't even pay me for this (though I wish they would!).

Last summer at the Dragon Boat Races

Shopping down at the urban market.

I know that everyone has different thoughts on how to best bond with your child.  This was just our experience with the Noodle.  When it is time to go back for Mei Mei, the situation may be totally different.  We'll take each one as it comes.