So why do they call Baltimore "Charm City?" Maybe it's the beautiful skyline, the old brick buildings, or the historical areas with lots of good food and shopping? I'm not really sure of the real answer, but undoubtedly Baltimore is a unique city with lots of charm. That's for sure. The home of the Baltimore Orioles, the Baltimore Ravens, tons of museums, and world recognized hospitals, this city has a lot to offer.
Along with the "charm" of the city, comes a lot of lifestyle changes for us. Before having Abby, things were a bit different. (in more ways than one) I could take the day to walk the city, spend hours shopping the day away, meet friends for lunch or dinner on a whim. Now with Abby, I'm realizing just how hard city life is... not to mention, the dog (poor Max) isn't even here with us yet. I just look at the city in a different light and want to make it the best for my little baby.
This past week has really made me realize the things that are sometimes taken for granted. Simple things. Walking out to our driveway isn't as easy anymore... I now have to walk to the elevator (and yes, it's a far walk...really), then go down to the third floor, out to the garage, then drive through a PACKED parking garage just to get to the alley that leads us out into the world. It's quite a production to get anywhere in the car. Target isn't just a 10 minute drive anymore, it's a drive that instead of making every weekend, I will make every 2 weeks. Getting the groceries inside the apartment is quite interesting too. Baby on the hip, load the stroller up, and go! I also miss having a park at the end of our street. Unlike at home, I can't just walk to the park everyday... I have to drive to get to a park. Even then, you have to be all eyes because of some of the shady characters that lurk around these parts. It's not bad, it's just different. I miss the silence at night when it's time to finally relax and go to sleep. Instead, I hear the towel bell ringing every hour, the trains coming through, loud people enjoying a night out on the town, sirens ... you name it, we hear it.
Really I'm not complaining about these things ... it just takes a lot of getting used to. The city is definitely going to offer a lot, especially as the summer weather arrives. We do have a lot of things within walking distance, which is always nice. I rather walk than drive in this city and it saves a lot of time! Our apartment has a nice pool that will open Memorial Day weekend. That will keep me and Abby busy ... I can't wait! Besides, it's not everyday you wake up to a mini parade of bagpipers right below you on the street. Abby loved that this morning!
Now that I have rambled on, I'm going to make this baseball season an adventure for us. I want to reach out and find new things to do. Libraries have a lot to offer children, even Abby's age ... the aquarium ... playdates with old friends. It will be a fun time ... just have to take it all in! :) Most importantly, our family is so blessed to have this opportunity! Go O's!
These pictures don't really match my post, but .... they are cute, and rather funny. Abby is just full of personality these days! Enjoy!
Abby posing with Teddy.
This bear is actually mine... Jim gave it to me a few years ago when he left for Spring Training.
Then she starts to topple over trying to move Teddy.
And this is how she falls. What a model!
Notice the crossed legs, finger in smiling mouth ... and of course, those chunky thighs takin' charge!
3 comments:
That last picture is to die for! It's so stinkin' cute! You'll embrace all that city life has to offer, and then you'll be thrilled to be home and enjoy the slowness of this little beach town too. You've got the best of both worlds with baseball, so enjoy it, and be happy and feel blessed, cause you certainly are. Muah!
I totally agree with Carol, Liz! This is your crazy life being married to a baseball player- the best of both worlds! You have to think of the city as one big scavenger hunt at this point. "Find" all of the treasures you can in the city to expose Abby to! You are so creative- take the smallest things and make them a wonderful experience for her! That's the beauty of her age. Anything to her is SOMETHING! Don't ever forget that! Enjoy it up there- especially being close to your family. That is definitely a "Sunnyside!" Haha!
Thanks guys.... I'm trying to be in that mindset and it's getting easier and easier!! Abby is loving the city, so much to see!! I do feel blessed and happy, just miss you guys!!
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