Let the record show that long-term relationships offer plenty of opportunity for sacrifice. It can range from big things (“Oh, we’re moving to another state so you can go to grad school?”) to little things (“I’m just crying because you have no idea how much I really wanted spaghetti tonight.”) Once a baby, or babies, are added to the mix, there’s much more to be done and many more sacrifices to make for your parenting partner that are, in fact, totally worth it.
I'm somewhat hesitant to use the word "sacrifice," as it has such negative connotations. I mean, it's valiant and people tend to hold "sacrifice" up as a sign you're selfless, which is also revered as a desirable quality. But it also sounds unfavorable and, you know, "wrong." Like you're being "forced" to do these things for someone else. However, in my experience, when you share your life with someone and you have a baby (or babies) with them, what is considered a "sacrifice" is really nothing more than a logistical necessity. Of course, every relationship is different and I don’t want to assume the dynamics of my own reflect what everyone else experiences. However, now that I have a toddler, I would guess that there are a number of situations that are pretty common for most parents of small children.
Actually, come to think of it, if anyone has found a way around any of the following sacrifices, please let me know. In the meantime and for the rest of us (without an army of assistants and nannies) it’s on us to balance our kiddo’s needs, our partner’s needs, and yes, our needs. So, with that in mind, here are just a few sacrifices you'll make for your parenting partner that are, in the end, completely worth it: