As I move closer to the third trimmest of my second pregnancy, I've started to reflect on my journey of motherhood thus far. Albeit a short journey to many, my oldest being only 17 months, it's a journey all my own. One that I have had many ups and downs, one that has allowed me to grow in ways I never would have, and one I wouldn't trade for anything. Aside from my marriage, it is the most beautiful and most important part of my life. Being a mother is one of the hardest things I've ever done, challenging me in ways I never dreamed. It's also the most rewarding labor of love you can imagine. Being chosen to love, raise, and nurture these tiny babies is a true blessing and honor.
Before I became a mother I had a certain idea of the kind of mother I would be. It's hard not to laugh at those ideals I thought I would uphold (I'm looking at you homemade baby food and cloth diapers). It has been a part of my journey to figure out what is truly important to me when it comes to parenting.
live simple
slow down
have fun
be present
When I'm exceeding in these areas, I feel like I'm exceeding in motherhood. Sometimes, most of the time, its work for me to maintain these values - today's society is almost the opposite and I can get caught up in it quickly.
Live simple
I'm a person who does well with less stuff. Clutter affects my mood and mindset quickly. I'm constantly purging and getting rid of things we don't use or need. I've also found with less stuff around, the more Landon actually plays with his toys and reads his books. A clean and simple environment helps us all feel more at peace and calm.
Slow down
Becoming a mother taught me so much about patience. Landon is a busy boy but he also takes in everything around him. We will be playing at the park and he'll stop and point to the squirrel running up a tree - something I'm so use to that I don't even notice. He's amazed and has wonder for things I never even slow down to look at. I appreciate so much more when I take the time to actually look. I'm getting much better at slowing down whether it means having a weekend at home with no plans or taking the time to notice the falling snow on our walk.
Have fun
Being a mom is work. Making sure my little one is well loved and cared for can take its toll on me. But sometimes I just have to throw out the plans for homemade meals and educational activities and just have fun. Seeing Landon laugh and smile and have fun - that is what is important to me. There is always room for fun in the schedule, like letting him help make chocolate chip pancakes.
Be present
I've been conditioned to multitask - almost feeling bored if I'm not watching tv, texting on my cell phone, and making dinner all at the same time. This is the area that takes the most work for me. The planner in me is usually looking to the next thing instead of whats right in front of me. I have to constantly keep myself focused on being present and intentional.
As we spend these last few months as a family of three, I'm focusing on these four areas more than ever. Our lives are about to become busier, crazier and even more full of love. My motherhood journey is just beginning and I can't wait to see where it goes.
xoxo
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