life has changed

I used to sing great arias.
Now I'm humming a lullaby tune
I used to read "The Great Books"
Now I'm reading "Goodnight, Moon."

I used to hike up mountains.
Now I'm chasing toddler feet.
I use to go out on Friday night.
Now I'm rocking a baby to sleep.

I used to want to see the world
and travel to far off lands.
Now I'm kissing tear-streaked cheeks
and washing dirty hands.

My fingertips once were trimmed
and polished perfectly.
Now they are calloused and rough,
but it doesn't bother me.

For all the things I used to do
have fallen all away.
But I'd trade them all forever
for my babies every day.

- Erin Larsen
October 26, 2009