The number of things you think you know before you become a parent quickly dwindles once you have your first baby. Having a lifelong affinity for kids doesn't necessarily prepare you for sleepless nights.

Loving kids does not really compare to how you will feel about your own. You will not ever love anything so heartily, and no other person can press your buttons so expertly.

The truth is children are like mirrors and once you have them, you will begin to see a side of yourself that you didn't know existed. They show it all, and tell it all to, to anyone who will even kind of listen to them. They will tell your deepest darkest secrets. They will at times have you gasping for air and praying for bedtime, which as a parent you can always make earlier if you need to, and trust me there will be nights where you need to.

You will run yourself ragged until you are just about out of breath and then when you think that you are doing all you can for them, they hit you with, not a thank you, but an I hate you or you're the meanest parent ever. So ungrateful, and yet still all yours.

Alternately, you can expect to get those random hugs and kisses and seeing those silly little smiles. All of these are little tidbits you will hold onto forever.

Parenting is the biggest roller coaster ride you have ever been on, the biggest highs and lows that you will ever experience. And just remember, just when you think that you have it all figured out, they move on. Sure you are still the parent, but now parenting starts over with a new face and more challenges to face and more things to learn.

When considering parenting, think of it as a lifelong commitment. Think of all the joys and sorrows and the entire adventure of parenting will bring. It will change your life in an instant, and hopefully for the best.