For me, the biggest thing is folding my girl’s clothes. I love watching her grow, but I’m sad when I finally get to fold her laundry and find that several items don’t fit anymore. Like the pants with the ruffles that I bought when she was a whopping 2 pounds.
This whole growing thing happens fast and it hurts deep and I’ve cried about it more than I ever thought I would.
It’s okay, new mama.
From what I’ve gathered so far, becoming a mother is a lot like exercise: you tear down muscle to build it up bigger and stronger. This is just an exercise that takes the rest of our lives to perfect.
In the meantime, we get to enjoy this new depth of love and magnified emotions — or mama emotions — we’re now capable of feeling. It’s all thanks to this little life.
Think about that next time you’re folding her clothes or kissing her goodnight for the tenth time.
Finally, it’d be nice to know that you maybe, probably needed your baby more than she needs you.
Better yet, yes. You definitely need her more.
Your baby does depend on you for everything; she literally needs you. But she also gives you a purpose you didn’t know existed until she came along.
She brings happiness even at 2 a.m. when you’re beyond exhausted but she’s decided it’s playtime after her diaper change. Despite the dark circles under your eyes, you throw away sleep and give in to giggling with her because, right now, it’s time to stare at that smile that’s all for you.
Tired? It’s okay, new mama.
Really, it’s more than okay.
You’re figuring it all out one step at a time.
Your hair will come back before you know it. Those jeans will fit again soon. Your heart won’t always feel so torn at all moments of the day. And then you’ll sleep.
Someday we’ll look back on these times, the tough ones and the easy ones collectively, and we’ll know the intricacies that we’re navigating now for the first time.
Take it all in, new mama. These days were made for you.
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This piece originally appeared at raisinbabies.com, published with permission.
