In something like 44 hours, we'll be stepping off a plane and into the balmy, crisp San Francisco air. While *that* moment will be rewarding and relaxing (well, at least it will be three plus hours later when we finally arrive at our destination - I could only wish we lived in San Francisco as opposed to the middle of NOWHERE), the preceding 40ish could very well be hell.
I've never flown with a little one, seeing as how this will be A's first plane ride and all my nanny traveling was with self-sufficient(ish) seven-year-olds and (*major gasp*) on a private jet. Yeah, you read that right. More on my badass pre-baby life one of these days...
Anyhow, this will be my first time on a plane with a baby. Prior to this, I've taken about a trillion flights (one a week at least for over a year while I worked in NYC - again, more on that later if you'd be interested in hearing about it...) and, as much as it pains me to say it now since karma may very well be a bitch, I was always that annoyed New Yorker resenting the presence of your baby in the seat ahead of me. Damn it.
I'll freely admit that I'm not all that concerned about A. I have the world's biggest advantage (boobies with milk!), so that should keep her calm. I'm more concerned with the horror D is experiencing even imagining me having to nurse in public. He's such a guy. Anyhow, I'm gonna bit the bullet and do it, and have been practicing here and there at the odd social function, including our outing to the Central Market playscape this morning. No one has given me judgmental stares or harsh words yet, so I'll take that as a good sign.
As far as packing goes, it's coming along well. We're only going to be gone for four days, seeing as how that's all I can take of being stranded on a mountainside with my nearest and dearest, so we don't need *too* much stuff. Add that to the fact that we'll be staying with my aunt who has a two-year-old (and therefore a stroller, high chair, etc.) and we're well on our way to not paying baggage fees - score!
Any suggestions for things we should carry on the plane? I am not much of an overpacker, believe it or not, so my diaper bag will be carrying essentials only - a few toys, books, diapers, wipes, changes of clothes, nursing cover, wallet, meds.
Why meds? Besides the obvious precautionary reasons, A was up half the night with a runny nose...uhghhh. Pleasepleasepleasepleasedontbegettingsick.
Wish us luck! Any input on packing welcome! Just 24 hours and I'm off work until next Monday, which will then be my last full week. Trying not to think about that part :(
Good luck!!! I am a wuss about taking B out into public places... my huge fear of him freaking out and screaming and being one of those Moms that can't seem to control their child.... I know you're going to have a blast and I'm sure A will be a champ on the plane!
ReplyDeleteI think you're right about having an advantage on the plane. I've heard it's good to nurse during take off and I think she'll do great regardless! I think having a few of her favorite toys and something to chew on (other than you!) will be all she needs. Will there be a movie on flight? I'm sure that will hold her attention for a little bit if necessary. Or you could bring a portable DVD player for her.
ReplyDeleteI think you guys will do great! I hope you are able to relax and enjoy yourself. And when you get back, I would definitely like to hear about your kick-ass past life! :)
Luck! Although I may be too late. Hope you enjoy your trip and feel better.
ReplyDeleteDon't worry about nursing on the plane. It's kinda discreet 'cause you'll be tucked in your seat. And yes, men are so funny. My husband used to get all uppity about it too. Get over it! s'what they're for! lol
I think you'll do fine! I was so nervous about Ethan on our 5 hour flight to Hawaii, but he did awesome!!! Yes Nurse on take off and landing...I actually think landing was maybe more important. Does she take a pacifier? If she does that might help her ears if she doesnt want to nurse too. Something for her to chew on, her favorite toys and maybe smoething small and new that she will be able to discover. Ethan ended up sleeping most of our flight both ways...that was 2 months ago...almost...but I think you'll be fine.
ReplyDeleteOh, change her just before you board the plane, and then if you have to change her on board it was easier for us to just do it across our laps than to try and do it in the teeny bathroom.
Where in the middle of nowhere are you visiting? We used to live in the middle of nowhere in Ca. too! Our little town was only 30,000. Im sure after your travel, whether she's good or fussy, you will have a good vacation. Good luck and try and Relax :) She will feed off of you!
Have fun! I'm sure Ava will do fine -- and if she doesn't then make sure you get some good crying pictures to post here and tell us all about! (But I know she'll do fine...don't worry.) :o)
ReplyDeletewe just traveled from WA to CA (2.5 hour flight) and I nursed the baby while we were ascending, mostly for her ears and the pressure, and she went right to sleep. could be because it was nap time, but either way i'm thankful. if you have your nursing cover and are in any seat but the aisle, you'll be fine and no one will notice what you're doing.
ReplyDeletegood luck!
Noah had his first coast to coast airplane trip a few weeks ago (at just barely 5 months old). Nurse up and down and keep some new toys on hand to keep her entertained and she'll be fine:) Good luck!
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