When did I become a parent?

When our babies are new and little, we all have that overwhelming sense of fear and responsibility. The first night we were home from the hospital with Hailey, I bawled. I looked at her precious face and new I loved her so much more than I ever thought possible and cried because I didn't know what to do with her. You may just say that was a little postpardum depression going on, but how many of us are confident in our parenting? I was struck with "holy crap, I am a parent and now I am responsible for the upbringing of this child." So those first few months are hectic and they start to even out. You grow into a routine you both are satisfied with. You need them as much as they need you. Then they start growing and you aren't as afraid as you were, but still afraid. Then all of a sudden they are walking and talking and they make you smile and laugh. The next thing you know you are walking them to preschool and you are more nervous than they are. Those are all truly great parent moments and you love it. Let me tell you when it dawned on me that I am a REAL parent. The other day we went to register Hailey for the Big K-yes Kindergarten. WAAAAH, cry, sniff, wail. Only here is the REAL parent part. As we walked into the school, there was a sign that notified me that I was to bring shot records, birth certificate, and social security card. Did I think of any of those things? Of course not, because before that moment, I didn't think of myself as a REAL parent!! Of course I knew I was a parent and sometimes a pretty good one! But that is the moment I realized it. I am now responsible for homework and school projects and any other thing that will come with the next 13 years. YIKES I don't know if I have that responsible bone in my body, but I guess I will have to start searching for it!! HAHAHA! Does any of that make sense to anyone?