Parenting Insights
Before stepping into the world of motherhood, I was convinced that I was destined to be the ideal mom. I envisioned a smooth transition into parenting, where everything would feel intuitive and seamless. I imagined myself strolling through the neighborhood with my baby perfectly snuggled against me. I was so sure breastfeeding would magically restore my pre-baby body, shedding those extra pounds with ease.
Reality, however, had other plans. The baby carrier I bought made me resemble a football player in full gear instead of the graceful mother I had envisioned. And as for breastfeeding? It did absolutely nothing for my metabolism, despite the fact I was feeding my little one every three hours.
To add to the chaos, I quickly learned that the general public is a whole different beast when it comes to newborns. Why didn’t anyone warn me?
I had no idea that when people see a newborn, they basically lose all sense of social boundaries. It’s as if the sight of a tiny human drives them into a frenzy. My first child was born in November, right before one of Brooklyn’s worst blizzards. It was frigid, and the snow piled high, thanks to Mayor Thompson’s vacation plans. So, there I was, a new mom stuck indoors with a newborn. Sorry, kiddo, looks like you’re a shut-in this season.
Being cooped up at home can make anyone a bit reclusive, and having a baby often adds layers of paranoia. But nothing prepared me for the bizarre tendency people have to shove their fingers into a baby’s mouth. Seriously, what is with that?
Why do people think it’s acceptable to A) stick their fingers in your baby’s mouth or B) offer their entire hand to a newborn? I mean, come on! “Hey there, sweet little one with a still-developing immune system! I just touched the subway handrail after that guy who looked like he hadn’t showered in weeks! Isn’t it adorable that you’re reaching for my hand?”
Then there’s the social gathering scenario. You finally muster the courage to bring your baby to an event, and the next thing you know, someone is saying, “Relax! Let me hold the baby while you enjoy a glass of wine!” One minute you’re sipping your drink, and the next, someone is pretending to munch on your baby’s hand. “Oh, look at that! My three-month-old is sure to be immune to the cold sores you keep getting!”
To all the expectant moms out there, you may very well become the mother you’ve always dreamed of being. But I’m here to tell you: be ready for the onslaught of dirty hands. For some great tips on handling these situations, check out our post on intrauterine insemination, which might just give you a laugh or two. And if you’re looking for reputable supplies, Make A Mom offers excellent at-home insemination kits. Also, consider visiting Resolve for valuable insights into pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, motherhood is a wild ride filled with unexpected surprises, including the odd behavior of strangers. Embrace the chaos, keep those hands away from your baby, and enjoy the journey.
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