Why didn't any of you tell me???

It is absolutely amazing to hear the viewpoint of people who don't have children on what it means to be a parent. I mean, the insight...the knowledge!! ;-)

Did you know that when you become a parent (if you're a good one that is), that you can no longer participate in any activities that you once enjoyed? That you'll have no time at all other than staring at your child, watching their every move? That you cease to exist outside of the being that is your kid? Did you know that your life is over the minute your child takes its first breath?

All of these were quite startling revelations to me today. Did you also know that most parents couldn't possibly be happy as they say they are? That they say they are happy just so the world doesn't think they're bad parents? That the happiness of parenthood is one big conspiracy???

WHY DIDN'T ANYONE TELL ME THIS BEFORE? Why couldn't you have just told me the truth, let me live in the bliss that is pre-parenthood?!

Of course, I'm being facetious. But I kid you not...these are real opinions from real people. And if they actually had children, I might be worried. Fortunately, I know what it's like to love someone more than life itself. I loved and love Sam still with all that I am, and the same for this baby. I can't wait to see her beautiful face and kiss her over and over again.

These same people who believe life is over when you have children believe it only because if every moment of your life isn't completely perfect....it must be a living hell. And unsuspecting parents get so caught up in the beauty of having a newborn that they are completely shocked when it's not all rainbows and butterflies. That new parents haven't even considered the difficulties of raising a child.

Forehead smack.

Now...I know that not all parents are totally prepared for bringing home a baby. And yes, I do have this image of tending the garden on a beautiful summer day while my baby girl sits quietly in her carrier. Will that happen? I've got my fingers crossed for one moment where this is true. But is it more likely I'll be up with a screaming baby every hour for much of this summer?

YES. And I will struggle. And cry. Complain. It will get ugly. But I'll tell you what...I'd have given anything to have had those ugly moments with Sam. I wouldn't trade my babies for any other life. I say that as a parent, and I mean it so much.

I love being a mother. No conspiracy to rope others into becoming parents. No hidden fees, no fine print, no money down ;-)

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