Using kids to establish your identity

It's intersting to see how quickly life changes when one becomes a parent. I used to have such an interesting life. I was into music, rock climbing, snowboarding, camping, dutch oven cooking, sand volleyball, politics.... it goes on.

Shortly after I met the man of my dreams and became his wife, we decided that our lives could use more adventure and we had our first child. wow. What an adventure it has proven to be. It takes all of the time and resources we have to be competant parents. Now just about every conversation I have somehow leads to early childhood education, formula, diapers, teething, nap times... it goes on.

The most strange thing about my parenting adventures is that I would think any thing that dragged me away from the hobbies and interests that formed my life might cause me to become bitter and feel lost. The opposite is true for me. Even though I haven't kept up with the new congressmen's speeches, the latest hits on the radio, and my boarding skills are almost completely gone, I feel fulfilled. The little feet that are kicking me as I type this blog are so doggon cute. I just can't imagine having a full life without having these pitter-patter makers around.

I think the biggest challenge as my kids are growing is to get back into the things I loved before they were born so we can enjoy them together. Of course, the kids aren't into Rage yet, but they don't mind a little Cake.

It's easy to see the down side. It's not so easey for us to move about as it once way. Spontaneous dates and trips depend on stroller accessibility. And diapers... well, they will always be a drag. But the upside is so beyond what I thought it would be. There's nothing like being a parent. It takes all my time, my patience, and my creativity. Any one can take my place at work, but no one can take my place as a parent. I love it.