Baby, you make loving fun: Viva Italia and what I have learned so far

First and foremost, I am happy to report that travelling with bebe was a breeze in Italy. All my angst quickly went out the window once we got on the plane - she fell asleep for most of the flight and awoke just moments before we landed wanting a bottle. Can you say easy baby? And things only got better - she slept through the night the entire time we were there and had no problems adjusting to the new time zone. It is times like this that I actually contemplate travelling the world with her while I am on mat leave....

Daddy, Mommy & Vanessa in Assisi, Italy

I also have become introspective about Vanessa over the last few months - I can find myself lost in her face just thinking about the past and future as well as what could possibly going on in that wee brain of hers. But most of the time I just take it all in, because I know how quick and fleeting this time with her will be.

What have I learned so far?

that sleep deprivation isn't as scary as I thought it was going to be
that a parent-led schedule works best for me
that shopping for little girl clothes is one of the best activities in the world
that nothing warms the heart more than your kid smiling at you
that every milestone your baby hits is like them winning an Olympic gold medal
that it is important to make time for yourself to recharge
that taking a sleeping baby to get a manicure is a bad thing....because they always get up sooner than you think and your mani is never 100% dry
that look of pure bliss in the morning, when they see you for the first time, is priceless
that a great Dad makes for a much happier family