As a new mom, I consider myself lucky since I haven’t had too many days where I feel like gouging my eyes out with an ice pick or tearing all the hair out of my head from frustration. Believe me I’ve had my moments, but they’ve been few and far between.
This morning, I wasn’t so lucky.
Whether it’s the damn time change or that another top tooth is on its way, my daughter hasn’t been herself for the past couple days. She again woke earlier than normal this morning and would not go back to sleep as is the routine. This extra-early start to our day was not a good sign, yet I hadn’t given up all hope yet.
It was after her 3o minute catnap that I knew it would be the morning from hell. There was no way that was enough sleep to ward off the cranky demon baby that takes over my daughter when she’s extremely tired or starving to death.
I hadn’t showered yet and I wasn’t up for the circus of getting ready while trying to keep her entertained and out of harm’s way while trying to brush my teeth and put on deodorant. I was already too exhausted. But I had no other choice.
In her seat she sat while I tried to reenergize in the shower. I found I could muffle her fussy cries by letting the water run over my head and ears just so. It was bliss for a couple minutes…until I had to get out. The fussing continued even when I was in sight. It stopped when I picked her up, reminding me of our days when she was a newborn. (I barely ever put her down then.)
As I placed her on the floor so I could get dressed, she broke down. She did the silent cry that breaks my heart every time: eyes squeezed shut, mouth open in horror, body trembling. It’s like the clap of thunder after the bolt of lightning. You wait and wait, then boom!
So I scooped her back up and there we sat on my bed, both of us wailing away for no better reason than we were so very tired.
Soon after she fell asleep, allowing us the reprieve we needed to start fresh and salvage what was left of the day.
When I opened her door to her bright rested eyes, she smiled at me like nothing had ever happened. And I fell in love with her all over again, like I do every single day.
Ah, sleep. How I miss it
. But the joy of parenthood is worth every waking moment, isn’t it? It gets easier, I’m proof! 
Yes, it is definitely worth it! And thanks for saying it does get easier…I was beginning to think that was a complete myth. : )
“Cranky demon baby”…oh, do I know that one so well… When people ask how I do it (take care of 4 kids all day, mine plus daycare kids), I honestly say, I HAVE NO IDEA! We are lucky that there are good days to balance out the bad days.
And Ryan is right, it does get easier. xoxo
Yes, the good days far outweigh the bad ones…the next morning was the total opposite. Everything went smoothly and I had my happy little girl back. : )
And good job for taking care of all those little ones!! You’re amazing!
Oh wow! this is so true!! I had one of those days recently when the lil one just so cranky all day…I know just what you mean.
It was a rough day for us, but we made it through with some cries and laughs. : ) The next day was much better! Thanks for commiserating. : )
Awwww. That’s why they are so cute. So we keep coming back despite the bad days. I hope she gets back to her routine soon.
You’re so right! Her happy little face erases any frustration I have. Thanks! The next day was much much better and we’re both back on track!