your mom at the pediatrician

Dear Chicken Nugget,

Moms have special powers.  They've been known to lift vehicles to save their child, beat back robbers while holding a baby, and take a bullet for their child.  Your mom is no different.

Last week we took you to the pediatrician's office for your first visit.  They did a quick physical, nothing more than a body scan, tapping some parts here and there, moving some joints, and looking into the ears, eyes, nose, and mouth; generally, a very typical visit. 

Of course, you being just a few days old were not very happy with the strange setting and the even stranger silver-haired man who was doing all the poking and prodding.  Your mom, watching you cry, became upset.  She didn't attack the doctor or smash chairs into windows or anything, but her momma bear instincts did kick in and all she wanted to do was shove the doctor away and pick you up to let you know all was well.  Luckily, she has a reasonable amount of restraint and did not assault the doctor.

Today we went back to get a newborn screening test done.  It's a genetic test required by the State of New York that verges on the inhumane.  The doctor, this time an older-mom type, apologized for what she was about to do but reminded us that there was no other way to do this.  For this particular test, they prick your heel and then bleed it to collect enough blood samples to run 20-something tests. 

The nurse, having witnessed your mom's reaction to the physical exam, and probably fearing the wrath of a momma bear, asked your mom to leave the room.  Actually, they told her it'd be best if she left the office altogether and just walked outside to the hallway.  I stayed with you and held your little hands as they, literally, bled your heel.  You cried the cry of tortured angels.  I was almost certain the heavens were going to open up, fire and brimstone was going to come raining down or, at the every least, that your mom was going to kick down the door, scoop you up and carry you to safety.

But, again, your mom is incredibly well-composed and waited patiently.  I'm glad I've been able to go to these visits but am a little worried about what may happen when she has to accompany you to get vaccinated all by herself.  I'm worried of getting a phone call at school from the local precinct telling me that your mom has been arrested for assault and battery. 

The momma bear does exist.  It's inside her.  I've seen it in her eyes. 

Never doubt your mom's instincts or her special powers.  You are a very well-cared for child, Nugget. 

Eternally yours,

Tu papa