I won't be saying Happy 18 month birthday to Braden because that makes no sense. A birthday is just that, the day of birth. I will say thanks Braden for the greatest year and a half of my life. You are an amazing little boy and are certainly a much more wonderful gift than I ever deserved.
Although this idea is not completely original, even in this space, I thought it would be fun to note some of the things I have learned over the past 18 months.
- Immobile babies should be enjoyed thoroughly for their immobility.
- You can do a surprising amount of things, including complex engineering, on little to no sleep.
- I need a lot more patience. Even after 18 months I still struggle with that most days.
- If we could harness toddler energy we could power the entire planet.
- Trying to follow a TV show while keeping up with Braden is about like reading a book while someone beats you over the head with a mallet.
- Declaring "Bath Time!" is the equivalent of a parenting time out that can save you from some tough spots.
- I am willing to sit through any amount of insanely annoying children's TV shows if they just make Braden stop crying.
- Clip! Clop! Riding on a Pony!....Sorry. Too much Barney yesterday. That just proves my point.
- You cannot fit all of your old hobbies and habits into 1/3 of the time. After having kids cuts will have to be made. I am still working on this one too.
- Becoming a first time parent is like taking your prior life and inserting it into a roller coaster ride. It is difficult at times to keep your balance and staying on track often challenges the very laws of physics, but it sure is a thrilling ride. There's a lot better chance that you'll get puked on too.
7 comments:
I agree..on all counts except Barney. But I'm getting pretty tired of Baby Einstein Numbers and the ABC book.
as always you say everthing perfectly. I totally agree with #9 and #7
You made me remember that today is my daughter's anniversary 18th month of life as well.
11-12-08.
When you have five kids, you overlook the things like this.
Comments to your findings:
1. Except when they're in carseats. Then you have to decide if you keep the car running for 30 more minutes while sitting in the driveway or risk waking them up trying to get them out.
2. Very True.
5. Which is why I DVR programs and watch them when the kids are asleep.
6. Also, "who wants to go for a ride" works just as well.
7. Aint that the truth.
9. All I got right now is blogging.
10. Amen
Congrats on making it this far, bud.
Patience. Patience is the key. And, like you, it is my #1 struggle on a daily basis. That and not keeping up with old hobbies. I can't remember the last time I watched a sporting event in it's entirety.
But it's all worth it.
speaking of hobbies, I've cleaned off my desk and EVERYTHING is either in the trash, sell or donate pile. I haven't used it in 3 years I never will LOL
I'm with you on everything except #7. It was one of the main reasons for getting rid of our satellite service. One more minute of Caillou and I was going to get stabby.
Most of those apply throughout child and teen hood as well. So, sit back enjoy the ride! It never gets old.
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