hard work

It is surprising to me how much hard work goes into taking care of a baby. Loving Husband says it's like being entrusted with a poop machine that we have to keep in good running order for a set period of time--everything goes back to that one function. I just had absolutely no idea how hard this parenthood thing would be. It's one of those moments where only the experience of doing it prepares you. Beforehand, you have this theoretical knowledge that it will be difficult--afterwards, you know. Kind of like adolescence--before, you've no idea what the changes will really be like nor what growing up is about, and after, it's all there (though admittedly jumbled).

The sleep deprivation, the emotional exhaustion, the mess in the house--who knew? Anyone who's had a kid, I suppose.

The smell of her hair, the joy in seeing a smile (even if it's from gas), the warmth of her little body sleeping on yours--who knew? Anyone who's had a kid.