Quality Time…

I have to tell you – I am really enjoying being a full-time mom. Not that I ever considered myself a part-time mother…but there are some things you sacrifice (at least I know I do) when you work and have children. Now when I wake up in the morning, Tyler and Jordan have my full attention – and they have it all day long. Before Jordan was born, Tyler honestly had my complete attention until around 11:00 every morning. Then I had to divide my attention between him and finding out what was going on in the world. That meant reading the paper, watching the local and national news and listening to the radio. That takes time and even though I was physically at home…mentally I wasn’t always there.

As I am writing this…Jordan is starting to fuss. It’s funny because he hasn’t fussed all day - until now - when I sat him in my lap and began to write. Can babies actually tell when they’re not the focus of your attention? Maybe his whining is just a coincidence – but I don’t think so. That’s exactly what I’m talking about…

So yes, it is nice to be able to give all of myself to my kids and my husband all day long. Even though Jordan’s sleepless nights (yes - he’s still staying awake for most of the night) leave me groggy in the morning – I wouldn’t trade this time with my family for anything. The dinners and evening “family” walks together are something I normally don’t get to do – so it has been a blessing.

Of course when you’re home all day with two kids there’s never a dull moment. Just recently Tyler got his hands on some peanut butter and had a huge allergic reaction. His face was completely covered with red blotches, his eyes were red and swollen and he began scratching his face and neck. I was so glad I was there for Tyler and could take him to the emergency room with his father instead of hearing about it – over the phone. It turns out with a shot and some Benadryl - Tyler was okay. In fact, he enjoyed his visit, the nurses and especially the stuffed animal he got for being such a good little patient.

Speaking of Tyler, I believe he is beginning to adjust to life with a baby in the house. Although today, when we were riding back from Omaha, we caught him with his hand in Jordan’s car seat. After repeatedly telling him to remove his hand, I had to unfasten my seatbelt, turn around in the seat and physically undo his strong grip he had on his brother’s wrist. OUCH!

Jordan is adjusting as well…He’s really filling out and beginning to make all those adorable cooing sounds. He loves being held and cuddling almost as much as he loves milk. And yes - he’s getting cuter ever day…And I’m taking it all in!

If I’ve learned anything from my maternity leave…it’s to make each moment count with your family. After all, that is what’s most important in your life. And while I love what I do for a living, I’m told when people look back on their lives – they never say, “Man, I only wish I could have spent more time at work.” It’s usually the other way around.

I want to hear from you…With the hustle and bustle of everyday life - how do you manage to keep your family first? And what are some of your favorite family moments?

As always – thanks for sharing!