I'm sure this is going to sound ridiculous to most of you and that you've probably all driven the baby in the car any times by now...but I have not at all and have to today for the first time. I wasn't always so nervous - my husband and I moved to Chicago last year and people drive like absolute maniacs here (and we moved from NYC so that's saying a lot!). I was rear ended TWICE while I was pregnant so that gave me a complex. I saw a horrible accident right before I had the baby that had just happened - I called 911 and had to turn around on an on ramp and drive the wrong way to get away from it. But with all that said, I know I need to get back on the horse and cant live in fear, which is why I signed LO and I up for a music class. We have to drive ourselves today and I don't want to have a panic attack!
Luckily I have done a few dry runs where I drove the car with my husband but I would love any tips or at least some good vibes!
Re: Driving alone with LO for the first time today
This. Whatever you do don't turn around to look at the baby. If you need to check on LO then pull over.
I'm from Chicago and we are nothing compared to DC drivers. I also have a "complex" to the point that I don't even know how I get into a car everyday. I was in 2 car accidents while pregnant (one rear end and one passenger side.) I was super afraid driving my daughter around but I've gotten better. I think I realized my driving complex has to do with my wanting to control everything around me and obviously I don't have any control except for my own car.
I would suggest getting a "Baby on Board" magnet--people tend to lay off the tailing and what not if they see that little sticker. Also, feel free to honk at people for being idiots..I do it all the time for stupid stuff and people are always so afraid. DC people don't use their horns, but being from Chicago we are horn crazy.
I've gone a couple of places with LO by myself, but I also live in Columbus, so while drivers here are nuts, they aren't nearly as bad as Chicago..or Pittsburgh.
I don't envy you; I drove in Chicago once and it scarred me for life. Although my training in Chicago definitely made Detroit seem like nothin' at all.