It is the strangest experience to instantly be the parent of a toddler. Sure, I had over a year to prepare, then all in an instant, the moment was here and I was a mom. Overnight there was this little boy with me all the time. He is so precious and I love every minute, but it has also been an adjustment. I know that parenthood is a big change for anyone, but I think that bringing home a toddler into a formerly childless house is probably in a category all its’ own. Jayden came home mobile, opinionated and curious. Every jump into parenthood is a big deal, but the jump into adoptive parenting of a toddler is definitely unique.
Some of the things I have gotten used to over the last two months:
Constant Companionship:
Jayden follows me around the house like a little puppy dog. After all, mom does all sorts of really cool things like putting laundry in the dryer or pouring cat food into the cat’s dish. If he doesn’t keep up, he might miss something important!
No Privacy:
I knew that he would be around me constantly, but I didn’t quite realize that meant everywhere! I am now used to using the bathroom with a toddler playing nearby and I have learned to take a shower while he happily flushes the toilet at intervals.
Sharing Everything:
I call Jayden my little birdie because every time I eat he stands in front of me with his mouth open like a little bird waiting for me to share. Of course, if he doesn’t like what I give him then he is happy to spit it onto the carpet!
A Sixth Sense:
I have learned the meaning of his cries and also learned to be very wary of his silences. A quiet baby is not necessarily a good thing! If he goes off by himself and I can’t hear him then he is definitely into something.
State of Alert:
Since Jayden came home I find myself in a state of constant alert. I always know where he is and what he is doing. Even when I sleep it is a much lighter sleep because part of me is ready to jump up if he needs me.
Sense of Contentment:
The best thing, though, is the sense of contentment that I feel. I always wanted to be a mom and now my dream has finally come true.
Related Blogs:
Somebody Meant This To Be
A House Full Of Boys
A Couple of Laughs on Parenting