Who Knew?

I am surprised just how much I am learning as I prepare for our daughter to join our family. I am surprised how little I actually know.

This morning I had some quiet busy time while I was getting the garbage ready to put out, and I was thinking about what’s in store for us. I realized it’s been something like 12 years since I have had to change a diaper. Is it like riding a bike: once you learn how, you never forget? I hope so. If diaper technology has changed in the last 10 years, I am screwed. (I think baby bum technology has remained pretty much the same, so at least I know that much.)

I had forgotten how many baby medications there are. I don’t recall ever knowing there were baby versions of Tylenol and Advil and Motrin and Gravol. I had forgotten the wonderful world of Anbesol! And there are so many homeopathic or natural meds out there now as well. I wonder how I will keep them all straight.

I wonder how I will ever know she needs them. I wonder how I will ever know what she needs.

And baby products in the grocery store are never-ending! I have no idea what half of these things are! I am embarrassed to admit, I am going disposable for much of this trip — bibs and washcloths and that sort of thing — because it’s convenient and laundry is not a really viable possibility while we are away. But that doesn’t mean I don’t have all that stuff! Good doG, I have tons. I’ve been buying it bit by bit all along, so we are well-stocked with washcloths and baby spoons and sippy cups. One thing I did when we started this process is buy one or two things each week when I was grocery shopping — a soother here, a pack of diapers there — so that the expense would not smack us in the face all at once. And also, it means we don’t have to run out and get a bunch of stuff while we’re stressing with packing before we go and/or cocooning with baby when we get back.

Did you know they have washable, reusable swim diapers out there? I didn’t. Did you know those things your friend/neighbour gave you with all the boxes of clothes were waterproof change pads? I sure as heck didn’t. Did you know Gatorade was basically the same as Pedialyte? I didn’t. Did you know you needed all these things? I didn’t.

I am learning a lot. I think I can basically get my kid fed, bathed, and to sleep. I can entertain her. I can keep her mostly comfortable and happy, on a normal day. But beyond that… I have a lot to learn.

It’s a good thing she’s so small. She won’t know that I haven’t got a clue. We can learn together.