Since the girls turned two this week, I have been reflecting a lot on the past two years. I realized that I have learned many, many things. First and foremost, I have learned that I am a lifetime student and my children are now my teachers! I have learned that toddlers should always eat topless- it saves many loads of laundry, I have learned that my daughters have multiple identities and can transition between them at the drop of a hat, anywhere, anytime. I have learned that my children's voices are the sweetest sound I look forward to first thing in the morning, and that their laughter is my best medicine. I have learned that I would rather go to the park than the mall any day, and that my girls are dare devils. I have learned that it is okay to substitute my arm workout with pushing toddlers on a swing for an hour. I have learned that you should never feed toddlers spaghetti if you are having company over that same night. I have learned to never leave sharpies lying around the house and to always close my laptop when I am finished using it. I have learned that one of my favorite pastimes is reading bedtime stories to my girls while cuddling with them. I have learned that when change happens it is harder on mom than it is on the girls-they didn’t cry when we broke down their cribs and passed them on to their little cousin. I have learned all the names of the sesame street characters and have realized that they are my daughter's friends. I have learned that my children will do anything, I mean anything for chocolate milk or M& Ms. I have learned that it is essential to always have chicken nuggets and frozen Mac’ N Cheese in the freezer. I have learned that taking a nap is a luxury I will never again take for granted. I have learned that my Ellie is very ticklish under her arms and that Lola will laugh if you even show the littlest sign that you are going to tickle her. I have learned that toddlers learn from example and that I must, must be cautious of everything I do and say, I have learned that Lola and Ellie are always listening to what you say but do not always do what you want them to do. I have learned that the phrase “hold you” can be my favorite phrase and my least favorite phrase. I have learned that there is simply not enough time in the day to do what needs to be done, but I have also learned that the dishes will be there tomorrow and that having a clean house with two toddlers is almost impossible-so don’t try so hard. I have learned what a great father my husband is! I have also learned that Tony’s wheelchair is a great stroller and also a great spin ride. I have learned that being a mom is the ultimate gift, it is not easy by any means, but it is worth all the sacrifice! I have truly learned how fast time goes by and to try and always live in the present. Ultimately, in the past two years, I have learned what unconditional love is and I have learned again what I have always known, that God is good and children are one of God’s best and greatest blessings! Here is a verse that I have learned to live by these past two years and will continue to let guide my journey with parenthood: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will guide your path.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Lola and Ellie, Thank you for being my teacher!
Lola and Ellie, Thank you for being my teacher!
I love you!