Just last week, I found myself trailing a mother through the grocery store’s bread aisle. Yesterday, I spotted another one at the library, and this morning, I saw a mom attempting to enjoy her coffee in peace at Starbucks. It’s like they’ve suddenly multiplied, and I can’t help but notice them everywhere.
These moms always seem to have their hands full—pushing hefty red shopping carts, maneuvering strollers, or managing playground swings—all while wrestling with a squirming infant. They’re masters of multitasking, going about their day without realizing the monumental task of managing a little one at their side.
I often find myself wanting to approach these moms and say, “Excuse me, but would you mind if I held your baby for a moment?” Yet I know that the response I’d likely receive would be a look of bewilderment, perhaps a hasty retreat, or even an eye-roll. I can already envision someone summoning store security on me! If only they’d pause for a second to hear me out.
The truth is, I haven’t held a real baby in what feels like ages, and that’s genuinely why I long to cradle your little one. I’m just a well-meaning mom looking to lend a helping hand, but more than that, my empty arms and dusty maternal instincts are yearning for the warmth of a baby against my chest. Seriously, it’s been forever!
It’s hard to believe I’m saying this, considering I once spent nearly two decades with a baby either nestled in my arms, at my breast, or perched on my hip. During most of that time, all I wanted was a moment’s respite—just a chance to eat, use the restroom, or shop without a little person attached to me. I was so overwhelmed that I would have gladly handed over my baby to anyone willing to take them for a bit.
Now, I find myself wishing to reverse time. Those soft, pudgy babies who filled my days with joy have grown into tall, hairy teenagers who want nothing to do with me.
“Don’t you have friends with babies?” you might wonder. Unfortunately, no. Most of us have navigated into the tumultuous territory of raising teens or are dealing with college kids. Unless one of our children decides to start a family, or a miraculous late-in-life pregnancy occurs, we’re left with nothing to hold except piles of laundry left by our not-so-little ones.
So we find ourselves silently stalking you in stores, smiling wistfully as we pass by, yearning just to catch a whiff of that delightful baby head smell. Oh, how it surpasses the scent of a 17-year-old! (You’ll have to trust me on that.)
I’d even go as far as to propose a baby-holding service to retailers. “Hey, Target! Forget about your door greeters; let’s make a deal. Want those busy moms to slow down and take their time shopping? Hire me and my fellow middle-aged friends to hold their crying babies!” Imagine how much more shopping a mom could do if she could try on clothes without a fussing infant! Just keep the coffee coming, and I’ll soothe those little ones with ease.
I know there are many moms out there who would gladly hand over their babies for just a few minutes of freedom while running errands. First-time moms, I understand your hesitation—you’re still on high alert. But one day, you might find yourself in the bread aisle wishing for a friendly stranger to relieve you, while moms with multiple kids already know the drill. Go ahead, hand that baby to me for a moment while you grab some bagels. I promise I can handle it!
This article was originally published on December 20, 2016.
For more insights about pregnancy and parenting, check out this excellent resource for pregnancy information at March of Dimes. If you’re considering becoming a parent, you might also want to look into Make a Mom’s authority on home insemination kits. And if you’re interested in more related articles, visit this blog post for additional insights.
In summary, there’s a special kind of nostalgia that comes with holding a baby, and many of us long for those moments again. While we navigate the complexities of parenting older kids, the sight of a young mother with her infant brings back cherished memories. So, if you see a friendly face lingering nearby, remember that sometimes, we just want to share in the joy of babyhood—if only for a moment.