One of the things I find most surprising is how much easier and better mommying becomes with more kids. For me, going from no kids to one was the hardest adjustment, and then each additional child got easier to welcome into our family rhythm. We get in a groove, don't we, once we figure out this mommying gig. We gain confidence, we relax, we let go. We learn how quickly childhood passes and refocus our parenting priorities on the things that really matter. We watch as our children's spirits naturally unfold and we realize that our role is not to build perfect people, but to guide and nurture, listen and love. With this pressure off, mommying becomes more fun, more rewarding, more meaningful--better, easier, happier.
With more kids, I see special sibling bonds emerging and the natural desire of the oldest to watch out for the youngest. I see a little one eager for more responsibility, more opportunities to help out with family tasks. I see a littler one learning negotiation, teamwork, conflict management, and communication skills much more quickly and adeptly than his big sister did at his age. I see a littlest one finding her spot in our family, in awe of her big brother and sister and already determined to do everything they do.
I find mommying more kids to be deeply rewarding and think adding to our family would be lovely at some point. What about you? Won't you join the Family Size Blog Carnival and share your thoughts?
Yes! Although I would have to convince my husband :) I actually found going from 1-2 to be the hardest transition. Having the first I was so ready, and I could give all of me and my time just to her. Then #2 came and I had to figure out how to negotiate 2 little ones who needed me. Going from 2-3 has been surprisingly easy, she just goes with the flow, and fits into our day. I would love another one, make it a nice even # so everyone has a partner when they need one.
ReplyDeleteOh yes, those husbands!... A nice round number sounds perfect to me too! Will you join the blog carnival?
DeleteI don't have a blog. Is there some way I can still participate in this?
ReplyDeleteYes! We can have someone else host your post as a "guest post," or you/we can set-up a basic blogger account that would host this post. I hope you'll participate!
DeleteA few months late on this entry, but I was just thinking about this as my two older daughters were playing in their room and my son reading his book while I folded the laundry in his room this evening. I remember being so nervous that my third child would miss out on the time I had with his sisters, but then as I looked at him calmly reading tonight, he may have missed out on some time with me, but the experience that accompanied his growth also accompanied my own as a parent. Although there were three little people to take care of, my cares were not the same as they were as a new parent. I've learned to overlook the dust/laundry/dishes while everyone is awake and just be with them. Love this blog and I so commend you for urban homeschooling...you are utterly inspiring.
ReplyDeleteMeg, thanks so much for your nice comment. I am glad you like this blog.
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, it is so interesting to see our perspectives and expectations change over time as our family grows and we become more "seasoned."
Thanks again for visiting!