Motherhood is no childs play-Suhana

Hi everyone, how's life? Mine couldn't have been better. I have been experiencing the joys of motherhood and learning how tough it is to be a mommy. No wonder they say motherhood is a responsibility. This week proved to me that taking care of a child isn't a cakewalk.

First of all, after our joy over having a baby for Disha didi subsided a bit, we decided to name her but that too was tough. None of us could come up with a good name. After turning down a lot of options, Disha didi's suggestion of Khushi was finalized for the baby as indeed she brought happiness in all our lives. Later that day, I missed Khushi and couldn't sleep as I was only thinking about Khushi. I went down to Disha didi'd room and got Khushi to our room and poor Ishaan had a tough time preparing some milk for her. I felt great when I could guide him to do the same. It was such a joy to hold Khushi and go to sleep. Of course, poor Ishaan was barely hanging on the bed.

Next morning, Disha didi and I both got the shock of our lives when she realised that Khushi wasn't with either of us and was missing. We were all shocked. There was major chaos to find her and meanwhile all the horrible scenarios ran through my mind. Was she kidnapped? Did she fall over the bed? What happened? We were relieved to know that Ma had taken Khushi from my room and we got a scolding for sleeping so soundly and being too lax. I realised moms have to be super vigilant and you can't rest even in your sleep. A baby needs care 24x7 and that taking care of a baby is not a child's play.

I woke up with an agenda in mind and wanted to ensure Khushi got all nutrients in her meal. I prepared Italian Khichdi for her as I wanted her to be a healthy baby and she would need a regular dose of vitamins and minerals. I had researched about the same on the internet, but what they didn't mention is that infants don't eat khichdi, they only have milk. I was so annoyed, why couldn't they say that in the first place. Thankfully Rajni didi and Ma stopped me.

Taking care of a baby's needs is an endless list from medicines, food, milk powder, toys, diapers, lotions and what not. I wonder how people who don't earn much take care of their babies. My love and concern for Khushi probably made Ishaan jealous which is why he zapped me with a statement claiming I didn't get Khushi for myself but Disha didi. Although I agree with what he said, I am getting very attached to Khushi and I realise I fret over her a lot. I love Khushi so much and I never thought such a thing was possible. When she sees me and gives me a sweet smile, I feel wonderful.

I wonder if all mothers go through such feelings. Sure there is a lot of information on how to raise a baby that is available everywhere, but let me warn you not all of it is reliable. Thankfully I am glad I have a supportive and informative family who guides me on what to do and what not to do. But what if I was a lone mother at home, anything can happen. I could harm my baby unintentionally. Like I woke her up when she was sleeping as I didn't know that she would cry and cry and not go to sleep again. The other time when Khushi sneezed, I got so frantic and covered her in woolens but Rajni didi told me this way Khushi might get suffocated. There is so much to learn for new moms.

I can't help but think about my mom when I hold Khushi as I feel really special. But it was really sad when Khushi's real parents turned up. I was not ready to accept that or give her up. I wanted to think of a plan and not give Khushi back to them and I protested too but to no avail. I guess there is a god as a miracle happened and it turned out that Khushi wasn't their child in the first place. We all were thrilled and our joy knew no bounds.

It felt as if Khushi was reborn. I am loving playing mom to Khushi. It is like a glimpse of the thrills and chills of being a mommy, the trials and triumphs of motherhood. Ain't that wonderful? May be its an indication? should Ishaan and I think of starting a family? Hmm, there's some food for thought.

Meanwhile, do write to me at suhana@starplus.in and don't forget to watch Sasural Genda Phool every Monday to Friday at 7.30 pm only on STAR Plus.

Hill Road Media Tuesday, August 09, 2011

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