There was once a time when I could stroll around the city, worrying about nothing more than a grad. school assignment. I came and went as I pleased, not thinking about how my actions would affect someone else. Even years later, when I was working professionally as a teacher, I was free as a bird. I would come home from work, go to the gym, eat dinner (in or out -- often deciding at the very last minute!), and spend my evening doing whatever I wanted! As a married suburbanite, I still had a huge amount of personal freedom and flexibility to do as I pleased. Nothing really changed until I had a child.
Daniel upended every routine I had established, from showering and dressing each morning to exercising and relaxing each evening. Every decision I made affected him. If I wanted to take a walk, I had to put him in his stroller. If I wanted to go shopping, I had to drag along a huge bag of feeding and diapering supplies. If I wanted to exercise, I had to wait until my precious boy was napping. My world ultimately revolved around him. It took some getting used to, of course, but I don't even remember what that transition period felt like. All I know is here and now, in my current reality. Even after a lovely weekend free of responsibility and scheduling, I eagerly stepped back into my role as Mommy. Life may have been easier five years ago, but it certainly wasn't better. Daniel has enhanced my life in ways that free time never could.
