if they had told me 
what it was really like,
those days and days
of endless routine

the wiping of noses, the frequent tears
feeding, bouncing, bathing, toileting
not enough sleep
endless dishes and washing of clothes
repeat	upon repeat

if they had explained
that i would spend 
hours just sitting, child on lap
feeding, comforting, entertaining 
tired

that my body would never be the same
and really my mind as well, since you
are never too far from my thoughts
hardwired

i might have thought twice perhaps
—but it wouldn’t have mattered 
as i met you one by precious one.

i did the math and i spent 
three full years of my life 
uncomfortable with child 
to gain the four of you

nevertheless, i would 
do it all again, no hesitation
to marvel at, to cherish, adore
to watch grow
the treasures that you are.

heather pound 2025

My very first Mother’s Day.