I talked with a friend who is also a parent about memories each had from the early days of parenting. I noticed we had completely different memories. My set was around many stressful moments back then. My friend’s was mainly around the magic and love of these primal moments.

Over time the experience became much more familiar and known, but this conversation made it clearer that different personalities process intense experiences differently. While there’s nothing new here, the extent surprised me.

What was so overwhelming? 

Less control over events.

Much more attention and unasked for advice.

Many friction points with your partner.

Less free time.

A lot more noise.

You worry.

Your emotions go up and down, not the preferred small changes.

Much more decisions.

Much less sleep.

It opens your heart in a way you could not imagine possible.