A Day in the Life

Prior to having a baby, I led a very busy life. Each day began around 5:45 am and did not end until around 11:30 pm. As a teacher, I spent most of my day standing in front of a large group of teenagers who may or may not be all that interested in what I had to say. If I wasn't teaching, I was researching, grading or preparing for upcoming classes. After a 30 minute drive home I helped my husband cook dinner or I cleaned a room. Then it was back to grading or researching. I wore great clothes and I enjoyed my Starbucks latte every morning. And I loved it.

Life is very different now. My day starts at 4 am with an early morning feeding. Fortunately, I have the option of returning to bed. I rise around 8 am for yet another feeding. Ella Brooks and I play together. Her current favorite game is super baby, where she gets to giggling so hard that I usually end up with her drool all over my face. We read books together, mostly Olivia, Where the Wild Things Are and Guess How Much I Love You. These are very different from the readings I used to do- far fewer details and surprising turns.

I do not own anything cute anymore, its just not worth it. My hair is generally in pigtails and I do not bother to change out of the shirt that is covered in a drool-spit up combo. I am beginning to forget the details of the history I once knew, making me far less competitive at Jeopardy. If I get to have a latte it is kind of a big deal. It's funny what I get excited about these days. A spontaneous trip to Target, or a walk around the block are significant events in my day. And I love it.

This has been the best and most incredible change in my life. These days are hard, but they are sweet. Smelling like spit up isn't so bad!