Everyone knows once you become a parent certain things have to change. Before I became a mother I knew it, but I didn't know it. It really does change everything. Every. Single. Thing.
1. Starting with you. Your priorities shift, as you expect them to, but so does your sense of self. The first few weeks, I sometimes felt like I was lost, as my interests, work, social life and other aspects of my were put to the side. I didn't even have control over my own feelings as the 'baby blues' would come and go as the pleased, without warning. Eventually, I figured out that I hadn't lost myself. I was simply finding the balance between who I used to be and who I have become now, as a mother.
2. As we both tend to baby and try catch up on sleep 'couple time' is obviously more limited. However, the more into a routine we get the more time we get back together. The more profound change in the relationship with my husband was finding a whole new dimension to being together. I have always loved him, he is my best friend, but now I also love him as the father to the beautiful baby boy we share. Seeing my son in his daddy's arms or hearing him laugh at his daddy's tickles absolutely melts my heart.
3. The other obvious change is with your own parents. As cliché as it is, you now know what they went through for you and cannot help but feel a new found gratitude and respect for them (and perhaps, a little grudgingly, apologetic for some of the things you put them through).
4. Being the youngest in my family I have always looked up to my sisters. They each have two beautiful children, make motherhood look like a piece of cake and look good doing it too! Now, having started my own family I am in awe of what they do, but I also find it more relatable too. I am not just the little sister hearing about family life, I am a mother too, who now has a better understanding of those stories because now I have my own. It makes me feel much closer to them all.
5. Some friends will no longer invite you to things. Good friends will know you still want an invite. Best friends will know you still want an invite, but probably won't go anyway. Getting out is a lot more difficult for any new parent. With a baby who nurses every two hours (including through the night) and refuses to take bottles, there is not much chance of getting out for the next while. I often feel bad saying no or missing another birthday but friends will understand and in the meantime, I get to sit in and cuddle up with my gorgeous little guy.
So yes, having a baby has changed everything, even things I didn't think it would, but who said that change was bad? It might take a while to get used to how different things are but if you embrace the change, rather than fighting it, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.
