The first things you hear after the pregnancy test turns positive are “Congratulations!” and “Just you wait.” That second phrase was something that bothered me every time I heard it. It was usually followed up with talk of some dreaded part of parenting. People mean well and are trying to connect, but mama, if you’re reading this—just you wait, in a different way.
Just you wait for the first cry you hear when your baby takes their first breath. I know they warned you the nights would be sleepless, but just you wait until it’s 2 a.m. and the whole world is asleep but the two of you. You’ll look down at this magnificent person you created. Sure, you’ll be exhausted, but this won’t last forever, and these moments are yours forever.
Just you wait for the toddler years. They weren’t wrong about the tantrums—those are coming, but so are the toddler hugs. They tuck their head on your shoulder where it fits perfectly. They belly laugh when you tickle their little feet and make a funny noise. The first time a little hand reaches up to hold yours and it makes your heart skip a beat. The first time you hear them call you Mama or say I love you.
Just you wait for the first day of school when they look back to make sure you’re still there watching. Until you pick them up and they come running to you, yelling your name and jumping into your arms because seven hours apart feels like a lifetime. Until you see your sweet child showing compassion to another human and feel like you’ve done something right. It’s coming, mama—yes, even for those of you with wild ones.
Just you wait for the days of endless activities. I know you’ll be tired and wish you had a minute to stay home, but those days when everyone is home? Those will be the special days you all remember. The band concerts and baseball games and soccer and chorus and art shows. The moment your not-so-little one turns and looks out in the crowd, finds your face, and beams because they know they are loved and supported.
Just you wait for the high school graduations, when you’ll cry because something big is coming to an end—and it happened just as fast as they said it would. But your baby is still your baby and your job will never be done as long as you’re living. Celebrate the years that you spent side by side and look forward to the new version of your relationship that comes next.
Just you wait for the moments when the house is too quiet and your heart aches for your kids—and one of them stops by or gives you a call. Your heart will beat faster, and you’ll feel a weight lift as you hear the voice of the one you love so deeply. Just you wait for your baby to go from child to friend.
Sure, parenthood is hard. I’m right there with you, but some of these moments? Oh, I’ve waited for these for a very long time—and they were worth the wait. Good days are ahead. Even if today was a hard day, there are always better tomorrows coming when you have kids.
Just you wait.
by Lauren Eberspacher 
