I have always adored babies. Seriously, I’ve been a baby enthusiast for as long as I can remember. The softness of their skin, the delightful scent, and their innocent little faces captivate me. The joy and wonder they bring are unmatched.
As a mother, the love I felt for my children was overwhelming. If you’re a mom, you can relate; however, it takes a true baby lover to truly grasp the depths of my affection for my little ones. It was an obsession. Even during those challenging moments—sleepless nights, diaper catastrophes, and the fussiness—I was utterly enchanted by motherhood.
Throughout their journey from fragile newborns to adventurous toddlers, I often wished I could pause time. I imagined they would remain babies forever and assumed I’d long for those years once they passed.
To my surprise, I don’t miss it at all. My eldest is now 16, while my youngest is 8, and not once have I yearned for the baby years. I still enjoy holding and admiring other people’s babies, and I eagerly seize any opportunity to do so. But after a brief cuddle, I’m more than happy to return them, relishing the freedom that comes with having older children.
While babies are wonderful, they require a tremendous amount of effort. Older kids demand attention as well, but the nature of that effort shifts. It becomes more emotionally taxing, yet you experience more breaks. They can articulate their needs, and their physical requirements are not as relentless. Part of guiding older children is teaching them to be self-sufficient, unlike babies who depend entirely on caregivers.
When I observe mothers with their infants or toddlers, I marvel at their endurance and patience. I often ask myself, “How did I manage that?” It seems like a superpower that enables a mother to carry those tiny bundles for hours or to follow their curious, wobbly steps to ensure their safety.
The liberation of not having to hover over my children to prevent accidents or injuries is absolutely delightful. Knowing I can sleep soundly without waking up to nurse a crying baby is blissful. I don’t miss the constant demands or the vigilant watching.
I don’t even find myself longing for the remarkable aspects of those early years. I embraced that stage fully and cherished every moment, leaving nothing unappreciated. Once those years passed, I was ready to embrace the next chapter.
I will still ask to hold your baby if you’re willing to share. I may even momentarily fall in love with them. My baby-loving heart remains intact, and there’s nothing quite as sweet as cradling a newborn. However, any nostalgia I feel is simply a fleeting memory of my own little ones, not a desire to relive those times. I loved being a baby mom, but I have moved on. The freedom and joys of parenting older kids are irreplaceable—not even the intoxicating scent of a baby’s head can entice me back. (Seriously, someone should figure out how to bottle that aroma.)
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In summary, my journey through motherhood has allowed me to appreciate the baby years fully, but I find immense joy in the present with older children. The freedom, emotional growth, and unique experiences that come with parenting as they grow are treasures I would never trade for the past.
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