Do you remember the Saturday Night Live sketch "Deep Thoughts"? This is back when it was Saturday Night Live and not SNL. Well, here's my version.
Parenting sucks. You never think you are doing it right. I noticed this as I hang with the other moms who have newly adopted this week. There is a distinction between those of us with prior children and those without. Those who are first time parents, for the first time this week, are a bit shell shocked (it appears to me) and really doubting if they are doing it right. Then there are those of us who are on our second or more times around, we are also shell shocked, but we gave up on perfection/right years ago. Yes, food can be eaten off the floor, that's how you strengthen the immune system. Yes, you can let the baby cry, just try avoiding the public display and head to your room. Yes, the kid can pull my shirt over his head and show everyone my boobies. These are not proud breast anymore. Most importantly, where does all the bodily fluids come from? We are back to drool, slobber, diapers, sweat and runny noses all being rubbed on any available part of mommie - and her clothes. Does that sound gross, well guess what it feels even grosser!! Add that laundry is not totally available and its 100 degrees.
Parenting is great. Seeing a kid smile at you, run and bury his head in your knees! Getting kisses, sometimes the totally slobbery kind. Watching your kids sleep, knowing today wasn't that bad; they probably have nothing big to report to their therapist down the road. Just thinking about their growth - physically, mentally, emotionally - turns me to mush.
Adopting is weird. It is meeting a new mate at the wedding alter. You are together for good and there was no warm up period. The honeymoon period is the "get to know you" window, not a romantic interlude. Not even having the right clothes to dress the kid.
Adopting is awesome. I'm meting a kid when I'm not recovering from surgery, my breast aren't leaking and he already sleep through the night. Getting to know someone while you have the energy to get to know them!
2 comments:
Well put, Angela. I'm enjoying your posts and observations. Best wishes with the next part of your journey.
It's so nice to see the streets and tower that were right behind our hotel (Jen Feng sp?) Did you get to climb to the top? Our boys went up with Dad and girls enjoyed the grounds below. Great to see dh ringing the bell. On our first trip Lyssa was a bear on her first flight from province to GZ, on our second trip Nora giggled and smiled from Nanchang to GZ. You will survive either way. Lets all send our smooth travels wishes for your family. It's so much nicer! Either way, I expect your family to really enjoy the White Swan change. xoxo, Caroline
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