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Wednesday, March 21, 2012

A New Spoon for Pigeon

Pigeon sat in Mother's lap and watched her eat. His eyes and mouth were open wide. He leaned his chin in whichever direction the food was, watched it disappear into Mother's mouth, then flashed her a beseeching glance tinged with despair. It seemed to him that the world was full of more colorful and delicious things to eat than plain, white milk--and they were always just out of his reach.

But you are too young, Mother tried to explain. I would share with you if I could. And she meant it. She could see Pigeon was curious, and she sensed this was good. But most things, maybe all things besides milk, were too strong for a four-month-old belly.

But then, Pigeon was nearly five months old. And the look in his eyes made Mother feel guilty. So, while Father went to the store, Mother found a package of Pigeon-sized spoons and a very small dish she could use for a bowl. Father came back with the tiniest jar of sweet potatoes he could find. Just a spoonful or two will do it, she said, stirring the orange paste into the dish.

They sat Pigeon on the table in his special blue chair with the tray and fastened a bib behind his neck to keep him clean and dry. Then Pigeon ate. He ate with gusto and joy and anticipation. And though he wasn't any expert at swallowing, it didn't take him long to finish his meal.

A few days later, Mother pulled out a new chair for Pigeon to eat in. It was larger, more comfy, with an even bigger tray for his bowl and spoon. When the potatoes were gone, Pigeon got to taste bananas. In the cupboard waited even more treats: carrots and peas, pears, and peaches... Just a few of the foods just fit for a Pigeon. Aren't we lucky, Mother said, to have so many delicious things to eat? For plain white milk was all well and good, but the rainbow of fruits that came from the earth, the textures and flavors and their endless combinations, could do more than feed the body. Food brings people together, Mother said. It certainly brought her close to her Pigeon. We must know it's a gift, she thought, and be thankful.

6 comments:

  1. I remember feeding my boys food for the first time. It was quite messy. But you are right, they figured it out quick enough.

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    1. I have to say I was expecting much worse but Pigeon did very well! So far he likes everything he's tried and he's gotten good at getting more in than out ;)

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  2. i loved introducing food to my little ones. what a very special and fun time. :)

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  3. oh! that was such a neat post! and I'm so glad it is going well!

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    1. he even loved the peas...picture proof tomorrow!

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  4. All of it is wonderful, but this part..."Food brings people together, Mother said. It certainly brought her close to her Pigeon. We must know it's a gift, she thought, and be thankful." too good for words!! :)

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