...you can't, I repeat, can. not. force a child to sleep or eat. You can go down with the ship on that one if you want, but that's not any fun. And not a very pretty sight either.
...humility. OH humility.
...the wonderful wonders of babywearing.
...the importance of developing a strong attachment with your children.
...co-sleeping isn't such a bad thing after all. In fact I rather enjoy it. And it keeps me sane and well-rested. (I can tell you with absolute certainty I would have publicly ridiculed anyone who three years ago told me those words would come out of my mouth.)
...my kitchen floor is just not going to be as clean as I'd like it to be. I'm still trying to come to terms with this one.
...little boys and little girls are very different. From early on. It really is remarkable.
...there is no one "way" to parent. There are lots of books, ideas, philosophies etc. out there. Some are good, some are bad, some are, meh, whatever. Each parent is different (even between spouses) and every child is unique as well, be it personality, gender, age, abilities etc. etc. etc. Parenting is a process that I am learning, and am going to continue to learn as long as I'm a mom.
...the mother sets the tone for the family. (I think I said this yesterday as well. Hmmm...)
...patience. Oh my, patience like I never knew I'd need. This one is (and probably always will be) a work in progress for me.
...how to really truly think for myself.
...I (and my husband of course) am the only "expert" on my child. There is no doctor, parenting book, government agency or anyone else out there who knows my children and what is best for them as well as my husband and I do.
...how to make peace with the fact that the next time I get an uninterrupted night's sleep will likely not be in this decade.
...I have reached a time in my life when wearing necklaces is just not the most practical thing in the world. (Took me two weeks - in a row - of broken necklaces to learn this one.)
...a certain amount of baby-proofing in your home is absolutely necessary. Sometimes it's just nice (and kind to your children as well) not to tempt fate.
...library meltdowns are way worse than church meltdowns.
...the importance of finding friendships in other like-minded mothers. This has been an amazing blessing in my life.
I know I could ramble further, but I think that's the big stuff. I've learned a lot, and I know I will continue to do so as the years go by. I'm just trying to do my best, hold on, and enjoy the ride!!! What a blessing the last three years have been.
Looking back...
My hubby and I on our honeymoon (July 2006). I thought I knew so much then. HA!
My first hours as a mama, with baby Gemma (January 2008).
Family of three.
First moments with baby Kolbe (January 2010).
Family of four.
Happy birthday sweet Gemma. God knew just what He was doing when He sent you to me. I love you baby girl.
