Eating out

As Anna has gotten older, the ease with which we are able to eat out has definitely changed. When she was 1-3 months old, we could go almost anywhere and she would sleep in her car seat through an entire meal. We just made sure she was fed before we left and we had the pacifier somewhere close by just in case. Ever since Anna hit 3 months she is less likely to sleep through the meal and instead prefers to be out and watching everyone. We have found louder restaurants to be the best since it gives her a lot to look at. Our favorite restaurant with Anna is Pei Wei. It is quick, has a busy atmosphere and there are usually other kids there as well - plus its PF Changs food without the wait!

We are also starting to learn the "lingo" at restaurants. Many places now have these things called slings which remind me of something you would put a suitcase on at a hotel - the car seat goes on top. I had never heard of or seen a sling prior to having Anna but they are at most chain restaurants such as Johnny Carinos or O'Charleys. Other places such as Jason's Deli have high chairs that convert to car seat holders without having to turn the high chair upside down (and having to touch all the sticky yuck that is on the bottom of them).