Being a parent

A recent post by Ed has got me thinking about being a parent. Well, that, and the fact that my sweet daughter kept us up most of last night. (Are you paying attention Ed and future parents?) You see, she was half asleep, half awake, and wouldn't stop crying. Some might say she had "night terrors" (you can google it yourself). I'm not sure what she had, but the lack of sleep my darling DH had, and myself, did not make for the most nurturing of situations at 3am this morning.

It's very challenging when you are overtired, stressed out, and the like, and your child is trying to express how she feels, without have the words or capabilities to do so. Believe me, it's frustrating for all parties. In other words, they won't stop crying, and they cry more when you ask what's wrong, getting even more upset. 9 out of 10 times, I'm totally capable of dealing with this in a loving, nurturing, rational manner. But it's those other times, when I'm suffering from sleep deprevation and stress, when being a parent can be very draining and challenging. Even more so when it's both parents.

So, always have a back up plan, step away for a bit to regain composure if you can, and remember, that children are probably just as frustrated that they can't communicate their needs or fears to you. Patience and understanding is a necessity, and helps when you find yourself so tired you can barely keep your eyes open, let alone comfort an upset child who won't sleep.

As to what her problem was. I asked her this morning why she cried so much last night, and she told me, "I don't know." Then, she wrapped her arms around me, and asked me if she could give me kisses. Like I'd say no.