Or maybe "normal selves" don't exist; we just change through life perpetually, and having children is another natural change among many. As a parent, I can say with some certainty that she won't ever be the same, at least as long as she can actually feel love and affection for her children. Children are the most awesome, transformative experience I've ever had. I wouldn't go back to being the person I was for any reason. I'm much better (from my perspective) now.