I used to be skeptical about the stereotypical portrayal of women as overly emotional during pregnancy and after childbirth. I thought, “I’m still me,” though I did notice a shorter fuse and a cloudier memory. It seemed like just another way for others to laugh at a woman’s feelings without really understanding them. But after welcoming my second child, I couldn’t ignore the truth: I had turned into a classic postpartum crier.
Sure, sleepless nights with a newborn, compounded by an early-rising toddler, contributed to the tears, but did I really need to cry over everything? While there are indeed substantial reasons for my tears—like wondering why no one is sleeping or contemplating the complexities of nurturing a child who may not appreciate me in a decade—I’m referring to those absurd, hormone-induced moments that brought on the waterworks. Here are some of the more ridiculous reasons I’ve shed tears since becoming a mom:
- When my partner suggested I discard the hot dog package I accidentally left out all day.
- Reading the epilogue of Knuffle Bunny Free, which is heart-wrenching in a Cat’s in the Cradle way—my partner cried too!
- Coming across an article about a cat that had run away. Honestly, any article about kids or pets could get to me.
- Watching that Google ad where a shy kid conquers his fear of public speaking. Let’s be honest, nearly every Google ad makes me tear up.
- Realizing that the $5 I set aside for my iced coffee had vanished.
- The moment my baby giggled during a diaper change—too cute for words!
- When my toddler told me I couldn’t join in on his playtime.
- Missing my favorite NY1 segment, “In The Papers,” which I once mocked but now desperately miss.
- Just waking up in the morning.
- When the deli guy slathered too much mustard on my sandwich—utter disaster!
- Watching a video where a baby cries at her mom’s singing. Honestly, any touching video about children or animals gets me every time.
- For no particular reason at all.
- Gazing at my son’s artwork.
- Reflecting on the song “Landslide.” It’s a beautiful, poignant piece that always gets to me.
- Picking my son up from school.
- My son’s unfortunate haircut.
- Hating my hair color, which is exactly what I’ve dyed it for over a decade.
- Discovering that my DVR failed to record Project Runway: All Stars (not that I even watched it, but still).
- When my cat decided to vomit under the bed—lovely.
- Watching the tribute to Mrs. Krabappel from The Simpsons after the actress passed away.
- Hearing about Amy’s battle with breast cancer and Robin’s coming out story. I don’t even watch Good Morning America, yet here we are.
- Pondering my son’s affection for his favorite stuffed animal.
- Pouring salt into my iced tea instead of sugar—what a disaster!
- Accidentally deleting an episode of Jack’s Big Music Show, which is now impossible to find. That was the last chance to see “Jack’s Super Swell Sing-Along,” an episode that holds a special place in my heart.
- Realizing I hadn’t washed my comfy slipper socks, forcing me to wear regular socks around the cold apartment—how uncivilized!
- Just thinking about how fortunate I am.
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In summary, becoming a parent can be an emotional experience filled with unexpected tears over both significant and trivial matters. Whether it’s the joy of a baby’s laugh or the frustration of a mustard-drenched sandwich, these moments are all part of the journey.