1. Toddler speak is part of your daily vocabulary. Granola bars are “bar bars,” bananas are “nanas,” you get the idea.
2. You hear music on the radio and start singing the Sesame Street spoof version lyrics instead of the real ones.
3. You are way too used to wiping other people’s butts. And boogers.
4. You have to start getting ready at least 15-30 minutes before you want to leave the house to deal with getting your preschooler to use the bathroom first or maybe deal with a last minute (and poorly timed) soiled diaper on your infant/toddler. Then there’s the hats, shoes or other required clothing….”No, not those shoes! The other ones!!”
5. You wake up not knowing if you’re in your own bed, or your child’s bed. You’re also not sure where your spouse ended up after a night of wakeful kids. A good night’s sleep with everyone in their own bed for the whole night is a triumph.
6. You stash snacks in coat pockets, the car’s glove box and your purse to stave off major meltdowns due to constant cries of, “I’m so hungry!” You’re always hungry, kid!
7. You endure a never ending battle with dirty dishes, laundry, and toys everywhere.
8. You are overwhelmed with pride at every little accomplishment your child makes from sitting up to scribbling, first words to ABCs & counting, and sharing a toy to making friends.
9. You get the best smiles, hugs and snuggles from the cutest being(s) in the world.
10. Despite the challenges and exhaustion, you wouldn’t trade your little monster(s), um, I mean, angel(s) for the world.
