Babywell in Berkeley

  That she’s never had a patient have an easy pregnancy, birth, and post-partum. This after I said that pregnancy had gone really well so far. Well, birth went relatively well… so all that’s left is now. I’m in a couple of mom chats so I know that I’m not the only one having a hard time, but I definitely feel like I’m the only person with this issue. The good: I feel so incredibly lucky to have y’all, my community, supporting me, my husband’s doing as much as he is, but oh my gosh. Calvin’s a month and a week old now! He’s gaining weight, he’s adorable,and calm, and growing! He’s started smiling at all regularly and making cute little noises that might be cooing. He’s sleeping longer stretches and I’ve finally figured out how to latch the kid (sort of). I’ve found ways to pass the time pumping, I’ve read a lot of Anne Lammott (thanks Carrie), and I’ve gotten to feel so connected to each family bringing me a meal, sending me an email, or text. Sorry if I haven’t written back. ...

  When did you first start "feeling" like a parent? It's funny because I've been grappling with the notion that being a parent feels a certain way, being a child to a parent most certainly did! I've been a teacher for 11 years, and I don't remember a time when I didn't own the identity of a teacher. I've been a cat-mom for a long time and at some point cat-lady became one of my identities. I've developed new identities over the years as well... sister, friend, wife, organizer and I've never recalled not feeling like these identities belonged to me. But mom? I feel like I'm faking it, making it up as I go along, like I can't get ahead of whatever this role brings. The only other time I've felt this way was when I realized I'm supposed to be an adult, and that never really took either! So when does it take? When I can wrap my brain around what is involved? When the baby declares it himself? I'm getting more sleep lately...