When my partner, Sarah, and I relocated to China for her academic career, I anticipated my new role as a stay-at-home dad would be filled with leisurely afternoons spent watching cartoons. However, I quickly learned that parenting full-time is no walk in the park. Over the months, I’ve gathered several insights that have reshaped my understanding of this challenging yet rewarding experience.
1. The Unsung Heroine of the 1960s
Raising a child today is undeniably tough, yet it’s a cakewalk compared to what mothers faced several decades ago. I’ve developed newfound admiration for women like Betty Draper from Mad Men. While I lounge in sweatpants, she managed a household in heels and perfectly styled hair without the luxury of modern conveniences like microwaves. Can you imagine cooking a roast with a 20-hour lead time for defrosting? I can barely plan dinner for the next day!
2. Beware of “Free” Baby Clothes
When you announce a pregnancy, you’ll likely be inundated with offers for free baby clothes. Initially, it’s a great relief, but here’s the catch: it’s often a ploy for decluttering. Baby clothes are worn for such a brief period before they’re outgrown, yet they’re hoarded and passed around like a hot potato. Now, I’ve become just as guilty, eagerly handing over my leftover baby clothes to unsuspecting friends, all in the name of making space.
3. The Unexpected Physical Toll
At 20 pounds, my little one has brought an entirely new level of physical exhaustion into my life. Despite my previous athletic endeavors, nothing compares to the constant lifting and carrying of a child who insists on being held while simultaneously attempting to leap from my arms. It’s like a never-ending workout session that makes a kettlebell class look easy!
4. Even the Most Honest Will Dodge Diaper Duty
My partner, Lisa, is one of the most ethical people I know—except when it comes to changing diapers. The moment our baby transitioned to solid foods, diaper changes became a whole new level of gross. I totally understand why she tries to escape the task; if I could wiggle out of it with a quick excuse, I would too!
5. Changing Tables: A Waste of Space
Here’s a hot tip: skip the changing table. We had one for all of three months before our baby rolled over and rendered it useless. It’s a clever marketing scheme, really; just when you think you’ve made a smart purchase, your child’s development turns it into an oversized dresser. I could have gotten more use out of a pile of onesies!
6. The Snap and Button Conspiracy
Whoever designed onesies with snaps clearly had a twisted sense of humor. The struggle of dressing a squirming baby while fumbling with tiny buttons is nothing short of a nightmare. Trust me, go for zippers instead—they’re a lifesaver. If someone tells you otherwise, delete their number; they’re probably in cahoots with the button industry.
7. The Joys of Being a Stay-at-Home Parent
Despite the challenges, being a stay-at-home dad is the most fulfilling job I could have. Sure, it’s draining and sometimes overwhelming, but witnessing every milestone—first crawl, first word, and all the little moments in between—is a priceless gift. It brings laughter, love, and a treasure trove of memories that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
In summary, parenting is rife with unexpected lessons, and while the journey is tough, the rewards are immeasurable. If you’re interested in more insights, be sure to check out this other blog post for additional tips. Also, if you’re exploring options for home insemination, Make a Mom is a fantastic resource. And for further reading on fertility, Facts About Fertility is an excellent source of information.