[romuloab42]

That's completely true. I think the most revealing thing about being a first-time parent, is that all children are different. The art of being a parent is to learn from your child, and to adapt accordingly. It is also worth mentioning that each kid learn in its own pace, so don't sweat if he/she isn't, say, walking within one year, or speaking phrases with 2.

[jwdunne]

Of course, we say don't sweat it. Most likely will. I did the second time: "oh god, Lilly seems well behind Maggie" to now: "wow Lilly is a touch ahead of Maggie now".

The other thing you will sweat is the newborn stage. You will try your hardest to get them to sleep only to panic because they are quiet, waking them up in your efforts to make sure.

One thing I do know: I changed the day my first child was born. What used to matter to me, things at work that bothered me, do not matter as much anymore. How can it? The most precious and beautiful thing is your child and all the damn hair they make you tear out!