Before I embraced parenthood, my life was a whirlwind of spontaneity and adventure. I thrived on excitement, from thrilling relationships to impulsive road trips, with my work revolving around exploring unique experiences and the latest celebrity gossip. I reveled in a world where no two days were alike. Stability? It felt like a trap.
Even my journey to motherhood was an adventure. I welcomed my daughter, Mia, on my own, which was a wild ride in itself. Initially, I could do whatever I wanted, and somehow, I managed to be a good mom despite my chaotic lifestyle.
“I love my daughter so much that her needs take precedence over my own.”
But now that Mia is two, life has transformed. I’ve realized that it’s not ideal to throw unpredictability into her days when she’s just beginning to grasp the wonders of the world around her. She deserves the comfort of routine, with hot cocoa and playdates with her cousins, rather than the chaos of a spontaneous trip.
Adopting a loose routine—something I’ve learned from the amazing parents in my community—has made a significant difference. It helps Mia with her sleep, eating, and playtime. I understand now that her stability is crucial for her growth and happiness.
As much as I would love to whisk her away for an impromptu lunch in the city, I recognize the importance of maintaining her rhythm. Why disrupt her day when I could just as easily enjoy our regular stroll to preschool? After picking her up, we might stop by the library, play with her toys, and enjoy some family time, all while saying no to her movie requests (like when she asks to watch Moana again).
After a day filled with simple joys, I’ll cook dinner while my partner runs out for a bottle of wine. Mia will have her bath, and we’ll read stories together, sharing sweet moments before tucking her into bed. She’ll express her love with a kiss, and I’ll sing her a lullaby before she drifts off to sleep.
And then, the predictable routine kicks in. I can almost set my clock by the time she’ll wake up calling for us in the morning and the way she’ll insist on watching her favorite shows in the evening.
If you’re navigating the world of parenthood, you might find inspiration in our other blog post about the ups and downs of family life. Whether it’s figuring out the best artificial insemination kit for your needs at Make A Mom, or seeking out helpful resources like Hopkins Medicine, there’s plenty of support out there.
In summary, transitioning from an adventurous lifestyle to the structured routine of parenting has its challenges, but it’s all about finding joy in the everyday moments. The love and laughter shared with my little one make every predictable day worthwhile.
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