Boys Night In

I went away from Joaquin for our first night apart last night. I spent the day on a wine-cycle for Melissa's bridal shower with eight of my very oldest and closest friends. The event included a sleep-over at Ginnie's house in Calistoga. I didn't miss Joaquin as much as I thought. I easily reverted to my old role of girlfriend, though possibly I am much less helpful as I enjoyed relaxing in whatever chair I found myself. Last Thursday while at work however I missed my smiling explorer so much. I preemptively missed him. Joaquin or Sillyboo or whoever he is to me at that moment is such a joy these days, I am reluctant to pass him off.

But Daniel was a willing and capable papa. In fact, he took Joaquin to the local lake for a swim with Chasin and Brian (also left alone for the night). And he organized a night of Baby Daddy Poker. Baby Daddy Poker is a semi-regular gathering of men with babes around 1 year old. The host rotates. The buy-in is low. The beer gets opened 5:00 pm (or so I gather from pictures.) The babies have their own set of cards to rumple and chew. Here is a great shot Daniel captured.


Click on the photo to see many babies you can count? Can you spot Joaquin?

I returned home with 12 ounces of milk in my purse. Joaquin was asleep in his room. When he woke from his nap, I found a smiling baby in his pen ready with baby hugs that encircle my neck. For once, Joaquin lay blissful content nursing in my lap. One little free hand reached out gently for my shirt and some how Joaquin seemed to realize that these moments are a treat.