Taking care of Klara turned out to be the second most enjoyable activity I’ve ever participated in. The first being spending time with N, obviously. I like it more than traveling in Europe because I always overspend and feel guilty. And more than going to the beach because I always get sunburn. And even more than spending time with my sister because she’s never as deliriously happy every time she sees me as Klara is. Which is a good thing because it would be disturbing if it were otherwise. Of course, I never tried spending time with my sister on a European beach. That might be a close competitor for the very enjoyable infant care.
Please take into account, however, that I’m particularly well-suited for infant care by virtue of my personal history. Until 2 years ago, I didn’t drive and was always stuck at home. So I don’t feel the panic of, “OMG, I can’t just pick up and go to the movies whenever I feel like it any more!” because I never could. So it’s nothing new.
I don’t mind being stuck at home because that’s where I do my best work. I don’t feel lonely, I very rarely miss the company of other adults, I don’t mind sleep deprivation, I’m not stressed out by baby screams – I’m ideally suited to taking care of a baby.
Clarissa's Blog 
Awww!
I have always enjoyed the first few months of having a newborn, when I don’t work and people leave me alone for the most part (I am never 100% off since I have grad students to supervise). But, I get sleep, I lose weight, and am happy in that newborn baby bubble.
For me, the stress comes about when I get back to work, as the work demands go to 100% instantaneously, the baby goes to daycare and starts getting sick, so I have to balance staying home with a sick infant with teaching obligations and other time-consuming and deadline-sensitive work, like writing grants. (Stress and no sleep –> weight gain.) And pumping sucks a$$.
Do squeeze out every ounce of enjoyment spending time with Klara while you are at home. It does get a bit tough when you get back to work, but you will find your groove. You love your work and you love your family, so having both and enjoying both (even if the logistics is a bit tricky sometimes) is absolutely the best!
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