Comparisons

There are differences between the first baby and the last. Here are some I've noticed:

First baby: the reaction of our families was giddy excitement. First grandchild on both sides. Grandmas started shopping for outfits and crocheting right away.
6th baby: Reaction of families is bafflement. "What?...How?...Who...Huh?"

First baby: I started wearing maternity clothes when I was two weeks pregnant because I was really, really excited.
6th baby: I started wearing maternity clothes when I was two weeks pregnant because that's when I grew out of my normal clothes.

First baby: Scott jumped in the car every time I had a craving and brought back whatever I asked.
6th baby: Do you remember when I asked for Panda and got gyros? After that, I went to Panda ALL THE TIME, by myself. Ha!

First baby: Went to violin making school all day and waited tables at night up until the 9th month. Reluctantly gave up the waitressing gig because Scott was embarrassed his wife was trolling for tips with her enormous belly.
6th baby: Taught ballet up until the last month. Pretended to be stretching whenever I couldn't get up off the floor. Pulled a muscle demonstrating a tendu.

First baby: I had a hospital bag packed by the end of the first trimester, stocked with the most ridiculous things, like massage oil and card games.
6th baby: I actually googled "What to take to the hospital when you're having a baby" an hour before we left to go to the hospital. I think I ended up with a book and my phone.

First baby: I brought my regular jeans to the hospital to wear home. I was surprised when I couldn't get them up past my knees.
6th baby: I wanted to wear the hospital gown home, but they wouldn't let me. I had to change back into the maternity clothes I came in. They were still snug.

First baby: Someone told me to feed her every two hours, so I did. I timed it. Golda would be screaming and I'd think, "Well, she's not hungry. It hasn't been two hours. Hmm...what's wrong?"
6th baby: He has never cried. You can't cry if you're eating.

First baby: I had just graduated from violin making school and quit my job, so I had absolutely nothing to do except take care of one little baby. I still couldn't manage to take a shower.
6th baby: I'm taking showers and keeping six kids fairly clean. Well, five. Freestone is a bit of a challenge in that area.

First baby: I think I was too shell-shocked to go anywhere. And too leaky. And too confused.
6th baby: I'm trying to stay home and rest, but it's harder than it looks. Life keeps getting in the way. The poolside is more relaxing than home, anyway, and it puts Ptolemy to sleep.

First baby: Scott and I stared at her all the time thinking how miraculous she was.
6th baby: Scott and I stare at him all the time thinking how miraculous he is. That part doesn't change, I guess.