Pirates, Princesses and Miniature Turtles

I’m not completely sure how I filled my free time before children, to tell you the truth. What exactly did I spend Saturday and Sunday doing? Or the evenings? I know I used to enjoy television. I’m certain my viewing choices didn’t involve anything with small guinea pigs or cartoon characters that bounce on their tails.

I spent time alone! (Alone!) I used to get bored! (Bored!)

What I – and every mother on the continental United States – wouldn’t give for a thorough understanding of the words alone and boredom now. Sadly, they’ve left my vernacular.

Having a child has always been busy, but now we’ve entered the world of imaginative play. And it’s infiltrated every aspect of our being.

Yesterday afternoon I was joined at the park by a sea turtle (one that propelled itself on it’s stomach around the perimeter of my blanket). I played the role of a “mama turtle” and “pirate”, alternately (and as instructed). This afternoon I celebrated three birthday parties; one for a kitten, one for a puppy, and one for a bunny (multiple animal guests attended each). We baked several cakes (all quick cooking; ready in 5 seconds or less). In the past 24 hours I’ve been in the presence of a princess, a mermaid, and a train conductor, all in costume (we’re equal opportunity here).

If my pre-child self could only see me now. So consuming. So exhausting.

But so utterly incredible.