Ah, parenthood. One moment you’re ready to escape it all, and the next, you’re overwhelmed with the urge to hold your kids tight and never let go. I like to call this the Great Paradox of Parenthood.
In my mind, I juggle two lists. The first highlights all the things I wish would disappear, while the second is a mushy, sentimental collection of moments I desperately want to freeze in time as my kids grow up.
Let’s start with the first list:
- Longing for Sleep
I’m talking about real, uninterrupted sleep! I crave the feeling of stretching out in bed for eight blissful hours, free from little elbows poking me or calls for water just as I’m dozing off. Sleep is more satisfying than chocolate—seriously! - Desire to Work More
Before kids, I thrived as a writer, and while I still manage to squeeze in some work, there are so many projects I want to tackle. It’s impossible to find the time amidst nap schedules and episodes of Paw Patrol. - Traveling Without Whining
I just want to get in the car and drive without the struggle of buckling in a squirmy toddler or hearing “are we there yet?” I long for the freedom to run errands without the chaos. - Eating in Peace
I dream of enjoying a meal without constant interruptions for refills or complaints about the food’s temperature. I want to savor every bite of the meal I prepared, while it’s still hot! - Kids Who Clean Up After Themselves
Or at least kids who don’t create so many messes! I’m over changing diapers and cleaning up spills. It feels like a never-ending cycle.
But after venting about all that, let’s dive into the other list—the one that tugs at my heartstrings:
- Nights Watching My Kids Sleep
There’s something magical about watching my children’s chests rise and fall as they sleep. They look so much like their baby selves, yet they’ve grown so much. It’s bittersweet. - Sorting Through Outgrown Clothes
That little red sweatshirt with holes? I can’t part with it. Each item carries memories, and the thought of throwing them away is heartbreaking. - When My Child Shares Their Sadness
Seeing my son’s eyes fill with tears when he’s had a tough day is gut-wrenching. In those moments, I’m his safe haven, but I know those times will become fewer as he grows. - Cuddling During TV Time
Settled in our pajamas, with my older son twirling my hair and the younger one curled up in my lap, those moments are pure bliss. Their warmth and love make me wish I could pause time. - Holding My Child As They Sleep
There’s nothing like the feeling of your child drifting off to sleep in your arms. It’s a moment of perfect happiness, and with every passing year, I wonder if it will be the last.
Yes, parenthood is a beautiful contradiction. How is it possible to yearn for simpler times while also wanting to hold onto every precious moment? I find myself longing for the days of carefree living while cherishing the joy my kids bring.
So here I am, navigating the messy, complicated, and utterly beautiful world of parenthood, trying my best to embrace it all. After all, it’s essential to accept that we can’t have everything at once, and maybe that’s perfectly okay.
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In summary, parenthood is filled with overwhelming contradictions, from longing for peace and quiet to cherishing every moment with our kids. It’s a journey of acceptance, filled with messy yet beautiful experiences.