Have you ever heard the phrase, “If it sounds to good to be true, it probably is”? If not, I’m sure all of us can relate some story to this saying. For me it happened shortly after we left the hospital with Myla. Myla slept great, and hated being disturbed in her deep sleep. We were so lucky and everyone was so jealous that we had a one week old sleeping through the night. Then David went back to work when she was just 3 weeks old, leaving me pretty much fending for myself. My husband works nights, so it only makes bedtime for Myla that much more difficult. I have worked nights before and I can assure you that it is not easy, and a baby only makes that more difficult. There have been nights were my baby wants to be held ALL NIGHT LONG, leaving me with an hour, MAYBE two, of sleep, mostly in five minute increments. David helps as much as he can and I see him sacrifice his sleep so I can take a nap or two when possible, but let me just say, mamas are amazing creatures. I have never in my life been able to function off so little sleep. Even though I am exhausted, this tiny human being keeps me going every minute of every day. There may be sleepless nights, but it is only temporary. My brother once told me, “You can do anything temporarily.” That phrase stuck with me and kept me going through many hardships. It is so true. I have to remind myself that it won’t last forever, she won’t always be this little, and she won’t always think she needs me every second of every day. So mamas, keep being amazing. Being exhausted is part of the job, let’s embrace it! For this time is only temporary and one day we will find ourselves missing that sweet little newborn who doesn’t talk back and thinks we are the world. One day we will lay awake at night worrying about more than wondering why they won’t sleep. In the quiet hours of the night, I find myself just staring at my daughter through exhausted eyes and I see how perfect every little part of her is. I created that! Looking into her sleepy eyes, crying for mama to hold her, keeps me going. So hang in there, after all, it is only temporary.
2 thoughts on “To the mama who gets no sleep….”
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So true!!!! I miss those sweet moments when you have that amazing bonding time with your sweet baby. I cannot express how fast those days go by. Just look at how fast you’ve become a mommy. Now I get to watch you go through these moments with my grand baby. Life is so short, enjoy each day. Live & love life, mommy (aka Nana!)
Wise words Emily. You have to just keep being there for your babies. Love them unconditionally, pray for strength and take naps when you can. Ask friends and family for help. Stay strong, be encouraged and just enjoy the moments, they grow up so fast!