Well, it's been quite a long time since I posted a blog entry.  Jack is napping now, so this is probably as good a time as I'll ever have. 

Let's see...Jack will be 8 weeks on Wednesday, or 2 months for those of you who are math-impaired.  He has grown and changed so much already.  I guess I have too.  The first few weeks I felt completely incompetent and helpless, terrified that I was somehow going to miss a hunger cry and scar him for life.  Now I can sleep soundly as long as he does, which was a good 5 hours last night!  I can change diapers with one hand and my eyes closed and locate a burp cloth with my foot in the dark. 

Yes, motherhood trains one in so many talents.  I've also compiled a thorough internal list of foods that can be eaten with one hand and don't give Jack gas.  I can get dressed without showering and go out in public wearing a spit-up stain without caring. 

I used to be such a selfish person, sleeping late, taking hours to get ready, trying on ten outfits with three pairs of shoes.  I enjoyed long meals and drank wine in restaurants with other adults.  I took long showers, read the paper, and baked for fun.  I shopped for hours when I needed nothing.  I watched cartoons at night and napped in the afternoon.

Now, I live for the 20 minute nap.  I feel a bit guilty indulging in M&Ms that I know are going to make their way into Jack's fickle stomach.  My greatest joys are funny little faces, coos, and non-gas smiles.  I shop for tiny clothes and buy diapers on sale.  I go to lunch with friends and have nothing to talk about except how special, amazing, and brilliant something is that Jack has done today. 

Being a mother is a full-time job.  It is hard.  It is time-consuming.  It is frustrating and confusing. 

It is wonderful.