My new name...Mommy

I am a relatively "new" Mom. Actually,I really think the term new mom should be saved for women who gave birth or adopted a baby and are in the first three months, but we'll say I'm new. My baby girl is 8.5months old and being a mom is amazing to me. Amazing, daunting, scary, exhausting, thrilling and joyous for the most part. I love it. I really do. I waited quite a long time, by some standards that is, to become a parent. My husband and I wanted to make sure it was the "right time" which is so absurd to me now because there is never a "right time" for parenting. The "right time" usually implies that you are finished partying and having fun and ready to "settle down" as well as financially ready to become a parent, right? I mean, there are other factors of course but those are the big ones that spring to mind at this moment. Well, as any parent can tell you, you are NEVER financially ready for children. I don't care how much money you have, you always need more. That is just how it is, right? We waited until we felt ready and while I am glad we did, I also cannot believe we waited so long. Being a mom comes pretty naturally to me. Probably because I was a nanny for many years and I am very comfortable with babies and older children. That being said, it is VERY different when you have one of your own!! First of all, there are the sleepless nights. I have struggled with insomnia for most of my adult life and now I know why God gave me that particular struggle... to prepare me for being a mom!! I had heard all the stories and read all the books but nothing compares to going through it yourself. It SUCKS!!! It just does. Somehow you manage, though. I have survived and no one has been hurt-yet. There is also the breastfeeding which is very difficult to begin with but if you are able to stick it out, it can be a wonderful experience. Of course, once it is over, say goodbye to your breasts. Without going into too much detail, let's just say they are NOT the same. Bring on the padded bras!! The joys of being a mom are endless. First smiles, giggles, coos, and so many more. Our daughter just started to crawl and pull up on her own. It is so much fun to watch her figure things out for herself! Who knew how exciting it could be to watch her pull up and fall back down on her butt over and over again. I could watch her for hours!! And yes, I am the mom who talks non-stop about my baby. It cannot be helped. I try to find interesting things to talk about but there just isn't anything else as interesting to me as my daughter's new teeth. Other friend-parents can relate, but I know my friends who don't have children are bored witless. I'm sorry, sort of. I'm really proud of my baby and her accomplishments!! While it may bore some, it is wonderful to me. I'm her biggest fan! What all of this boils down to is that being a mother is a huge responsibility with many, many rewards. It can be a challenge, but look at the payoff. Is there anything better? To me the answer is, no. This is it...