Parenthood

When your child discovers how to operate the volume control on the stereo,

When your child realizes how to get under your skin with a scream that sends shivers down your back and makes your ears ring,

When your child discovers that he can reach that container of baby powder, turn the cap to open it and spread it throughout his bedroom...quietly,

When your child discovers how to turn on the dishwasher before you're ready to actually run a load,

When your child finds joy in dumping his bath water onto the bathroom floor...one brimming cup at a time,

When your child (too young to be outside alone) realizes that he can now open the front door, manipulate the safety lock on the storm door, and make a bee line for the outdoors while you're occupied with another chore,

When your child discovers how to lock you out of the house while you're hanging laundry on the clothesline,

When your child takes pleasure in throwing his food all over the kitchen floor rather than letting you know that he's either not hungry or he's done,

I remember the following moments:

When he's not feeling good and all he wants is to cuddle with mommy,

When he runs up to greet you with a hug after he's been at daycare all day,

When he smiles at you and entices you to play with him,

When he freely shows affection even after he's been scolded for doing something wrong,

When you go to his room to get him up in the morning and see him sleeping peacefully in his bed,

When nighttime comes and you gather him up in your arms for cuddle time before he's tucked into bed,

I realize that despite all of my doubts, being a parent is worth every trying, hair-raising moment.


There are many days where I question my parenting skills. So far, I only have one child, so any new milestone is a new experience for me, and I often feel like I have no clue what I'm doing. I do realize that parents aren't perfect, but I also know that not everyone is suited to care for children. With my son's disorder, life can sometimes be a little extra trying, making me want to pull my hair out. My boy is getting bigger by the day and every day it seems that he is able to reach for forbidden items that were once out of his reach.