Enjoy Every Season Of Parenting

People are constantly asking us if we were crazy, deciding to have three boys so close together. Maybe a little, but I’m loving this decision more and more everyday.

 

Everyday I look around at a messy house, knowing it was caused by creative little minds at work.

 

Everyday I look next to me to see all three boys within arms reach, fighting over who gets to cuddle mommy more.

 

Everyday I hear them in their rooms playing, while Liam teaches his younger brothers valuable lessons.

 

Everyday they try to convince to me to extend their bedtime for a few more weeks.

 

Life with my three little boys is truly a blessing. Yet, there is a constant fear in the back of my head. Time. As much as I try to hold time still, I feel it falling through my fingers. My babies are growing so quickly. My little Lucas Love is now in three-six month clothes. I’m not a sentimental person, but I couldn’t help getting emotional. My boys will never be in newborn clothes again. They won’t ever fit in the itty bitty clothes, filled with memories.

 

I know what you’re all thinking. They will just have another one. I can’t even begin to think about having another little one right now. I was eager after the first too, knowing I wanted a big family. This time, I find myself trying to make time stand still. I can’t think of the next baby because all I can think about is keeping my three boys small forever.

 

Parents are always staring at my boys, reminiscing over their little baby days. It’s been so long for them, they find themselves begging to hold Lucas. In the back of my mind I’m thinking your children are independent! I long for the days of independence.

 

This week it hit me. Independence means my little baby boys won’t be little baby boys forever. Maybe I’m ok with my dependent little babies. Maybe I don’t want them growing as fast as I thought.

 

Every stage has been so fun so far. My husband says Levi’s age is his favorite. He’s mischievous and full of such innocence. 

 

You’ve probably heard this before, but take time to realize what a blessing this season is. This season right now. Your children are growing up before your very eyes. Instead of wishing they were just a little bigger to make things just a little easier, soak it all in. 

 

Soak in the cuddles, the kisses, the chaos, the imaginations, and all the little baby coos. Remember it doesn't last forever, but hold on tight while you're in it. 

 

What's your favorite stage of parenting so far?  

All Parent Should Listen To Advice

My little baby. I remember when I was pregnant with him. Every month was new and exciting while I watched my belly grow.

 

I had so many crazy thoughts about pregnancy. 

 

One day comes to mind. I was in the car with my husband and sister in law. We were talking about something, I haven't the slightest remembrance over the topic anymore, and it was getting heated. All the sudden I started yelling, telling them to be careful what they were saying in front of my unborn child. I didn't want all of this negativity in front of him!

 

Wow... Like my child could actually understand a word we said. I'm so grateful they gave me such grace and didn't just laugh in my face. Luckily I have very loving family who puts up with my crazy. 

 

As new parents, my husband and I had so many ideas about parenting. We thought being in youth and children's ministry made us pros. We planned on raising perfect children, since we had it all figured out. 

 

It didn't take us too long to realize we actually knew nothing about having a little baby. 

 

It doesn't matter how much you think you know, even after five kids. There is always something to learn about raising kids. Each child is different and children go through different seasons. 

 

If we would have remained the know it all parents, our kids would be completely screwed up by now. One thing I love about Indian families is their the village raises the child mentality. You're not ever on your own. All of your pinnis (aunts), mamas (uncles), and parents teach you what they've learned and give  you advice. They've taught us so much about raising kids. 

 

If I could give you new or seasoned parents advice, it would be to ask for and be open to advice from others. You don't have to listen to everything, but at least hear them out. 

 

Make sure you're only asking people if you actually want their advice. I try to only ask my close friends and family. 

 

You don't have to know everything there is to know about raising children. Accept help and advice from the people you love and respect. 

 

Share the best piece of parenting you've received from a love one on my facebook page, tag me @almstindianwife, or on Instagram with the #almostindianwife