Monday, January 29, 2007

Mother-Love*

* Thank you to Kristi and Toni Morrison for this title.

Since giving birth to Samara, my world has been changed place. When people say it is impossible to describe how things will change, they are correct. I knew I would have to cater to her needs, but I don't think I fully understood just how many needs she would have. Even if I am hungry, if she is hungry, I have to sit down and nurse her for an hour. Even if I have to go to the restroom, if her diaper explodes, I am holding it until she is clean and safely situated before I can go. If I want to sleep, but she wants to nurse, feed her I must. It is exhausting. The hormones are very helpful in that they provide an undying adoration for my daughter that makes me only want to please her and anyone who knows me knows this is the biggest change of all. Let's just say the art of selflessness was in short supply in my world. But it is amazing how easily I can give myself to her.

Still, there is some grieving for my old life. I knew it would be hard to email and chat with my friends and go to movies and hang out. I had no idea it would be hard to take care of my own basic needs. Last night we were talking about how different our life looked just seven days ago. We went out with friends, to a yoga class and then wached the Pats lose at a friend's party. Our time was ours. How could it have changed so quickly? I am glad I went when I did (lord knows I could not have waited another minute), but it is still so weird to not be able to plan such a monumental life change. As if one minute I am one thing and then next I am another. But I guess that's how most really huge things happen. And I am quickly learning that being a 'planner' does not help me in motherhood. Some nights I will sleep. Some nights I won't. Some days I will eat well and some days I will eat Odwalla bars while my baby nurses. But I think I can do this. K told me today that I need to approach motherhood like I approached labor and be willing to go with whatever happens. Wonderful advice. And I am trying. I certainly have fabulous motivation for it:

3 comments:

Marie said...

Congratulations!! Your daughter is very sweet... And yep, things will never be the same again. Huge adjustment... and very worth it! Enjoy your sweet lovey.

Kristi said...

Yup-I know exactly what you're talking about because I feel much the same way. I am still not as selfless as I need to be in taking care of Isabella. I want my downtime, dammit! ;) But you're right. Hormones and that "mother-love" make us do what we need to in order to care for our little ones. And as Marie says, every sacrifice is worth it.

Gal on the Go said...

I can't believe how sweet she is! The most beautiful baby (girl) ever! I had to change my blog to private bec of an incident last week. Will explain later. That being said, I sent you an e-mail to hotmail address from my blog inviting you. Try opening that and doing what it says and let me know if you can gain access.
Liz