7 months, 1 week
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A few months ago my mother obtained an “Exer-saucer” from a friend. Generously, this friend allowed Colter to borrow said “Exer-saucer” as her child had out-grown it (and the next child is still cookin’ away inside of her). I didn’t really know what to expect.
You have to appreciate that we live in a lovely 1200 sq ft, 2bd 2ba home. It is perfect for all that we require in gear – with a few square feet left over for living space. Initially CJ had a hard time letting go of bedroom numero dos as the clock ticked closer to Colter’s arrival. But, he gave it over willingly and even took on a project of reorganizing the 2-car garage for extra storage just in the nick of time.
You would think that a wee little babe would not require much space. And I am sure in many homes across the world, they do not. However….we live in a culture of “stuff”. And we have been incredibly blessed in all that we have received as hand-me-downs. Lo and behold our “living space” quickly became filled with baby “gear”: bouncy seat, Bumbo, swing, high chair, rocking chair, floor mat, Baby Einstein flashy thing, clothes, feeding supplies, diapers, diaper pail, random assorted toys, etc. It is amazing how quickly a wee little one can take over your home. Not that I mind one bit!
I was hesitant to embrace the “Exer-saucer”. The day my parents brought it out I admit I was nervous to see CJ’s reaction. Once the “Exer-saucer” was up and running I was terrified to face my husband. A 3 foot wide diameter and a height of nearly 4 feet when in its fully glory, this toy is not kidding around. It has colors, textures and sounds that will blow your mind. The first time I looked at it I thought I might have a seizure. CJ? Smiled politely and walked away.
More important than CJ and Heather: Colter. From the instant he first laid eyes on it, it was love at first sight. The first few weeks he was learning the device. Now? He can rock, roll, jump, scream and laugh all at once. Seriously impressive. He almost always has a poo, too.
My uncle, Karl, came to visit and he appropriately named it “Treasure Island”. The name has stuck and sometimes I think I hear my boy singing the words as he jumps with glee. With the new name, CJ and I have learned to embrace the eye-sore that lives in our living room/dining room/ family room (and even migrates into the kitchen at times). Just today I heard my husband say something I never thought I would: “I take it all back about Treasure Island. I love that thing. It’s a total life saver.”
I have quickly come to realize that I do not remember life before Treasure Island. It has and always will be a mother’s best friend.
