Dear Diary,

When I became a first time mom, I thought I would finally feel like an adult. Heck, I’m in charge of another human being. If that didn’t make me an official grown up, I didn’t know what would! But then I realized being a new mom is a lot like being back in elementary school. Most mornings, I eat finger foods for breakfast with my daughter, Dora and Barney. I’ve grown to love that purple, fuzzy dinosaur who I once thought was a little weird. I now think he’s pretty darn talented. I play peek-a-boo as I dress my daughter for the day and sing Skidamarink a dink a dink in the car. Here’s 6 other reasons why being a new mom is like being back in elementary school.

I Have Snack Time

As a new mom, I am always munching on Goldfish, Cheerios and fruit snacks—usually of the      floor.  When I was in the second grade, I remember trading food with other students at lunch time. Now, my mommy friends and I swap recipes.

I Have Labels

I’m not the most organized person.  But when I become a new mom, I attempted to keep my daughter’s room in order. I label bins for hair bows, socks and other accessories.

I Have Nap Time

I now need naps. On the weekends, I sleep when my daughter is sleeping—although I didn’t do that when she was first born. Unfortunately during the week, I can’t fall asleep on the job, or else I may wake up in the unemployment line. Maybe I’ll move to Spain where they take siestas seriously. They even have a sleeping competition with points awarded for snoring and pretty pajamas.

I Have Art Class

I now shop at Michael’s and can tell you what aisle tempera paint is in. I can tell you about a dozen art project ideas you can make using your hand print  I carry crayons in my purse.

I Have Field Trips

In the past year, I lost count of the number of trips taken to the science center, children’s museum, aviary, zoo, park and indoor playground. I’ve gotten permission from my employer to take a day off.

I Have a Uniform

When I was pregnant, I grew my hair out and rocked a ponytail until my daughter was one.  I selected shoes for comfort not style. I wore mostly sip on’s—what little girls rock, since they are still mastering the art of tying their shoes laces. I bought my first pair of yoga pants—note, I’m not enrolled in a yoga class. And my closet is full of shirts that billow out at the bottom to camouflage an after baby belly.

Hey DFTM Fam–In what ways have you returned to your elementary school days?