Last week, I found myself following a mom down the bread aisle at the grocery store. The day before, I spotted another one at the library, and just this morning, I saw yet another trying to enjoy her coffee in peace at Starbucks. It seems like everywhere I go, I encounter these mothers, and I can’t help but feel drawn to them.
These women have their hands full—literally. They’re maneuvering giant red shopping carts, strollers, or playground swings, all while trying to keep a squirming infant from wriggling out of their arms. They spend countless hours multitasking throughout their day, often without realizing how much they are managing while cradling a tiny babe at their side.
What I really want to say to these moms is simple: “Excuse me, but could I hold your baby for a moment?”
However, I know that more often than not, I would be met with bewildered expressions, a cold shoulder, or even a swift retreat. The last thing I want is for someone to think I’ve lost my mind or to have store security called on me. If only these mothers could take a moment to hear me out.
It’s been ages since I’ve held a real baby—no kidding. The truth is, I genuinely miss that experience, and I’d love to give you a little break. My longing to cradle a baby stems from a deep-seated desire to feel that warmth against my chest again. Have I mentioned that it’s been forever since I last held a newborn?
It’s astonishing to even voice that sentiment. For what felt like two decades, my life revolved around little ones—whether they were nestled in my arms, perched on my hip, or sleeping in my lap. During that time, all I wanted was for someone else to take my baby for a moment so I could tackle basic tasks like using the restroom or eating a meal. I was so overwhelmed with constant physical contact from my infant that I craved opportunities to have someone else hold my child.
Now, however, I find myself yearning for those moments back. The sweet, pudgy infants that once kicked me in the ribs have grown into tall teenagers who’d prefer I keep my distance.
You might be asking, “Don’t you have friends with babies?” Unfortunately, no. While we’ve all transitioned to dealing with the trials of raising teenagers or have children off in college (yikes!), we no longer have babies to hold unless one of our kids decides to start a family or a surprise late-in-life pregnancy occurs. As a result, all I can grasp are the large, damp towels left strewn across my home by my growing kids.
Thus, I find myself admiring you from afar while shopping, longing to lean in and inhale that delightful baby head smell. Seriously, the aroma of an infant is far superior to the scent of a 17-year-old (believe me on this).
I would even propose to major retailers, “Hello, Target? Forget about your door greeters; let’s hire me and my friends to hold crying babies! Imagine how much more relaxed mothers would be, and they’d likely spend more money shopping.” Picture the scene: a mom, free to try on clothes at Target while I gently rock and soothe her baby. All I’d require in return is a steady supply of coffee.
The reality is, I know there are many moms who would happily hand over their little ones for a brief respite during errands. First-time mothers, I’m not targeting you just yet because your protective instincts are still at their peak. But as time goes on, you might find yourself in the bread aisle, wishing for a friendly stranger to take your baby for a moment. For the moms with several kids? I know you understand—go ahead and let me hold that baby while you grab those bagels.
This article was originally published on Dec. 20, 2023.
In summary, the yearning to hold a baby once you’ve spent years caring for your own is a common feeling. Many mothers can relate to the longing for the sweet moments of babyhood, especially when faced with the chaotic teenage years. A little help could go a long way in easing the burdens of multitasking moms everywhere.