I used to roll my eyes at the tropes about emotional roller coasters that women supposedly go on during pregnancy or after having a baby. Sure, I noticed some shifts in my mood, but I didn’t think I was a walking stereotype. However, after welcoming my second child, I found myself transformed into the very cliché I once dismissed: the crier of postpartum life.
Sure, sleepless nights with a newborn and an early-rising toddler can take their toll, but did I really need to shed tears over every little thing? While there are significant reasons for my emotional responses—like the nightly “why won’t anyone sleep?” or the existential dread of raising a child—I’m talking about the more trivial, hormone-induced moments. Here’s a lighthearted list of some of the silly reasons I’ve found myself in tears since I became a mom:
- When my partner suggested I toss out the package of hot dogs I had mistakenly left out all day.
- Trying to explain the end of Knuffle Bunny Free without choking up. (In my defense, it’s beautifully poignant.)
- Reading a heartfelt article about a lost cat. (Honestly, any article about parenting, kids, or animals gets me.)
- Watching that Google commercial where a young girl conquers her fear of public speaking. (OK, fine, any Google ad or even a sappy TV spot.)
- Realizing I lost the $5 I saved for an iced coffee.
- When my baby giggled during a diaper change. (Cuteness overload!)
- Hearing my toddler declare I was no longer allowed to play with him.
- Missing the In The Papers segment on NY1, which I once mocked but now miss dearly.
- Upon waking up to another day.
- When my sandwich was ruined by too much mustard from the deli.
- Watching an online video of a baby crying at her mom’s singing. (Seriously, any video of kids or pets gets me teary.)
- For no reason at all.
- Looking at a drawing my son made.
- Reflecting on the lyrics of “Landslide.” (It’s just so emotional!)
- When I picked my son up after school.
- After my son’s unfortunate haircut.
- When I was unhappy with my hair color, which I’ve been using for years.
- Because my DVR failed to record Project Runway: All Stars (even if I could stream it online).
- When my cat decided to throw up under the bed.
- Watching the tribute to Mrs. Krabappel on The Simpsons after the voice actress passed away.
- Hearing about a public figure’s health struggles. (I’m not a fan of their shows, but it still hit me.)
- Remembering my son’s affection for his stuffed animal.
- Accidentally pouring salt instead of sugar into my iced tea. (That one was rough.)
- Deleting an irreplaceable episode of my son’s old favorite show, Jack’s Big Music Show—the last time I’ll ever see it.
- Realizing I hadn’t washed my cozy slipper socks, forcing me to wear regular ones in the cold.
- Reflecting on how incredibly fortunate I am.
If you’re navigating the emotional ups and downs of parenthood, know you’re not alone. For more insights into the journey of pregnancy, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination. And if you’re looking for practical tools, you can find reliable options for at-home insemination kits from a trusted retailer like Make A Mom.
In conclusion, parenting is a beautifully chaotic experience filled with unexpected moments that tug at our heartstrings—whether they’re joyful, frustrating, or downright silly.
Leave a Reply