When we first become moms, we tend to document every milestone. A tradition that seems to be quite common. The loved and hated “baby book” allows us to document all the firsts and has become a common baby shower, baby sprinkle, or belly rub gift. We all hope to keep these books up-to-date and accurate, but over the past 14 years, I have found myself filling in blank spaces months and even years later. This childhood-mama thing has gone so incredibly quick.
The “Firsts”
The first teeth, the first smile, the first birthday, the first steps. All very important “firsts”! (Not all mamas get to experience these typical firsts for various reasons. To those mamas, we feel for you and we recognize you.) These “firsts” are often celebrated. We celebrate with birthday parties, baby books, and Facebook statuses.
The Bittersweet “Firsts”
The bittersweet “firsts” rarely make good Facebook posts and are often hard to live through. The first sex talk, the first time he says “I hate you,” your child’s first broken heart, her first kiss. All very important firsts, but they rarely are celebrated and often a lonely experience for the child and the parents. We all get to have them but often not at the same time, and sometimes it’s extremely tricky to find any help dealing with them.
The Mama “Firsts”
We recently had our first night out without needing to find a babysitter. We might have called and texted home too many times, but we enjoyed the night out. I also very recently noticed that my showers are rarely interrupted anymore, besides for the occasional need for someone to use the bathroom. I no longer have a constant visitor while showering! The first time our oldest went for a bike ride on his own, I sat on the front deck the entire time waiting for his return. When he returned with a bloody knee and a broken phone screen my heart sank. However, he was gaining his independence and that mama first was one I was proud of. Independent bike rides are now a regular thing, and I still watch the clock.
The “firsts” are something we all will go through. Good and bad, they will happen. I am grateful for the firsts my boys are having, even the rotten ones. I am simply glad to have them.
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