What I Have Learned So Far...

It is amazing to me how having kids is a continuous learning process.  Things have been going relatively smoothly and I have learned so much about who I am, myself a wife, myself as a mother, my two girls, and our family dynamics.  I am really enjoying the journey that we are on and all that we learn along the way.  Below is a brief list of some of the things that I have learned in the past several months.

1. I have learned that your heart grows more than I could have imagined with each child.  It seemed strange and almost impossible to me prior to having 2 kids that I could have more room in my heart for more children, but then something magical happened.  As soon as Gracie entered our family my heart expanded exponentially.  I now know that when the family grows so does the love within it.

2. I have learned that the transition from 1 to 2 kids proved to be less challenging than I was anticipating. I don't know if this is a result of some of the challenges that I experienced with Brylie, or if  now have a better idea of what to expect.  Either way I am pleasantly surprised by the confidence that I am experiencing the second time around.

3. I have learned that there is much more stuff with two children.  Between the car seats, double stroller, diaper bag, extra clothes, front pack and snacks our car is packed and in a constant state of disarray.

4.  I have learned that getting out of the house also takes considerably more time.  This may have something to do with #3.  We are getting into the swing of things and I have learned to just allot more time to getting out of the house.

5.  I have learned that the bond of sisters in present even at the youngest ages.  Brylie is attentive to Gracie and her needs.  She is very loving and sweet with her.  Gracie is always searching for Brylie and when they make eye contact Gracie lights up.  I am so happy that they have each other.

6. I have learned that moments are fleeting and how important it is to try and stay cognizant of the present moment. Even when you are in a challenging stage, age or phase I have learned that it won't last forever.

7.  I have learned or rather I have always known but the 2nd definitely reinforced the fact that I couldn't do this without my wonderful husband.  He is an amazing partner and I am thankful for his help, support and love.  I feel fortunate that he makes it possible for me to be able to stay home and care for our girls.

8.  I have learned how much older and bigger Brylie seems now that we have a baby in the house.

9. I have learned that even though we have 2 girls that it doesn't necessarily mean that they will be able to wear the same clothes.  I assumed that Gracie would be able to wear all of Brylie's hand me down clothes until I realized that they born around different seasons.

10.  I have learned that laundry is ENDLESS.

11. I have learned that things start feeling smaller with 2 children.  The car, the bed and my clothes are just a few examples of things that have felt the increase in family size.

12.  I have learned that I am more competent than I had imagined with two.  I feel empowered, capable and much more in control.  There is a certain feeling of "I got this" that I now have.   This is not to say that there are moments when I need a little break or help, but over all I feel in control and in love with my family.

13.  I have learned that my love for being a mother doesn't mean that I have it all together or that I do it all right.  It means that despite my shortcomings and challenges that my joy of having these girls is always my driving force and what brings me so much happiness.  I try not to let the tasks, to-do's and the outside expectations rob me of what I believe is truly important.  The most important thing for me is that my family feels loved, valued and happy.  I may fall behind on cleaning and laundry, I may have to occasionally call in back up for dinner, I may rely on coffee a little more than I should, I may have moments of frustration, and I may go days without doing my hair or wearing anything other that lounge clothes but the absolute truth is that these kids are loved beyond my comprehension.  They are the guiding light in even my foggiest of days and manage to make my life feel meaningful, joyful and purposeful.  The saying "I may not have it all, but together we have it all" could not be more true with my beautiful family!!