Parenthood is all about obsessions (among other things). From conception to forever, we find things to obsess about. Are we talking to them enough in the womb? Will they know our voice? SHOULD WE TALK LOUDER!? Are they getting the nutrients they need? Is their growth normal? Do we have everything for their nursery? Are the hospital bags packed? Are they eating enough? Sleeping enough? WHY IS THEIR NAP ONLY 23 MINUTES!? Why aren’t they crawling/walking/talking, is something wrong? Should they be able to read in preschool? Want me to keep going?
Those are the expected obsessions. But becoming a parent has brought things that I never anticipated I’d obsess over.
Combing her hair – Isabel was born with a full head of hair, and aside from the huge bald spot she had as a baby from sleeping on her back and thrashing her head in her sleep, she’s never lost any of it. Now, I have this obsession with combing her hair after bath, even if she’s screaming (for some random reason). There is something fulfilling about getting the knots out, like I’m making a difference her life (I’ve been told it doesn’t matter).
The Nose Frida – A sick baby is no bueno for anyone. But sucking the devil’s juice from her nose brings me so much satisfaction, it probably isn’t healthy. In fact, I’d probably use it on myself if that was even possible.
Her laugh – Is there anything better than a baby/toddler’s laugh? The unrestrained, from-the-belly, oblivious to surroundings, laughter? Maybe, but not much. Their pure joy will bring a smile to any jaded adult. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a tickle war to fight
Observing independence – Catching your child playing by themselves, unaware of anything beyond a 2ft. radius, is amazing to witness. I wish I could bottle up the moments when she grabs a book and toddle-reads to herself, plays on her belly with her feet in the air, or just walks around in circles. I suppose my iPhone will do.
Feet – Even though they resemble my ugly feet, hers are adorable. And I want to eat them, even when they smell.
Watching the baby monitor – I’ve written about my love/hate relationship with the baby monitor. A child’s ability to barrel-roll the entire crib in seconds, yet still remain asleep is baffling – and confirms that we would never have survived co-sleeping. But seriously, I’ve been known to just stop and stare at the glowing screen, and want to go snuggle.
What are your parenthood obsessions?
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