Mr. and I sat down this weekend to plan out our July. Then we both got that crazed look in our eye when we realized exactly how busy this month is going to be. Between traveling (multiple times), Mr.’s always busy job, rolling out new designs, having company to visit, holidays, camping, and Hannah’s 8th birthday (which, if you are Mormon, you know is kind of a big deal) this month is going to be CRAY-ZAY.
Once we realized how insane life is going to be for the next 6 weeks, (who am I kidding–we’re about to have 4 kids it’s going to be insane from now on) we did what all self respecting people do. Packed up the littles and went to the Olive Garden for dinner.
I tell you what, nothing helps you relax like all you can eat bread sticks and Italian cream sodas.
Mmmmmm.
Anyways, while we stood outside waiting for our table, Mr. took pictures of the littles playing in the grass and me with my ever expanding belly.
I stood there thinking about having another baby.
When I was younger, and before the littles came along, I had all these naive ideas about motherhood. I used to think that you only got one special pregnancy. And that was your first. Only one where you were kind of the star of the show, where it really meant something. After that, you were just a harried mother popping out another baby.
But on Friday night, as I stood watching the littles play, I thought about how much better it gets with each subsequent pregnancy. Not easier. No. Pregnancy is not easy for me (is it for anyone?). I’m petite; there’s nowhere for the baby to go. That means I get huge, my back hurts, and I’m exhausted. But really, each time I do this, I get better at it.
Because now, it means more. The older the littles get, the more I understand how each of them is this unique little slice of life running around in the world. How much each of them contribute to the beautiful dynamic of our family. Now I look back at the time when they were babies and I don’t just see cute babies any more. I see Ethan and his jolly little demeanor, his cuddly personality, and the way his lisp makes Mr. laugh like nothing else on this planet. Carter isn’t just that angelic baby. He’s the toddler that gave me more trouble than I know how to describe, who all the sudden grew into this amazing kid who has more energy for life than any other person I’ve ever met, and a smile that’s so infectious you can’t resist it. Hannah’s not just my first baby, she’s a sweet little second mommy to her brothers, my obsessive child, who’s room is always impeccably clean. She’s my girl who will curl up and read all afternoon, who loves to hang out with me when I’m working, who leaves me notes so I know she loves me.
So now, when I lay in bed at night and feel this 4th baby moving around inside of me, I know how much more having another child means than just welcoming a new baby girl.
It means another spirit, with a will, a personality, and a unique potential to leave her mark on the world.
And I don’t feel anything like that harried mother I pictured all those years ago.
I’m a mommy to 4 kids and this was very well written. I have a 2 month old and I think I just appreciate babies more. I was always wanting them to grow up a little because I love the toddler stage.
You are my hero! This post is truly wonderful – your devotion and obvious love for your children is just so spectacular. So inspiring. Your babes are some lucky kiddos!
How close in age are your first three? I have a two year old, a 10 month old and one on the way this Jan. I’m so nervous about the 3 being so close in age!
Oh stop! My husband and I have been back-and-forthing about having a fourth, and you’re making it sound WAY too awesome. :) (Of course our oldest is only 4.5, so I guess there’s no rush!)
@KaceFace – My first 2 are 15.5 months apart, then there’s about 21 months between #2 and #3 (which means I had all three in 37 months). There are certainly challenges, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
What a beautiful post, your little ones are growing so fast. Adorable photos, I love the one where Ethan is trying to wink, at least I think that’s what he’s trying? Sounds like you have a super busy summer ahead, bet it will fly by though. I hope it doesn’t get too hot where you are. Pregnancy and heat is not a happy combo. Have a great week.
I needed this today! with two silly preschoolers in the next room and just 5 weeks from bringing home number 3, i have been overwhelmed to say the least. It helps to remember how precious the next few weeks are for us, not only to enjoy the kicks inside of me but also to enjoy what is left of our family of 4. Time to go play transformers!
Beautiful post. You make me want to be a mom again — and after the last few days, I’ve been feeling like I don’t want kids. I guess things change when you actually have them. :)
Oh how I love it. I am a mama of four amazings as well. My babies (they will ALWAYS be my babies) are now 7,8,10 and 12 … four babies in five years. But as they grow and become their own special people … wow. I love and cherish and admire them. I love our tribe. Here’s to the next addition to your own team!
What a beautiful post :-) Thank you for sharing your thoughts on becoming a mother for the 4th time. I know what you mean about feeling like that harried mother having another child. It seems like that’s how mother’s are viewed at times, but each pregnancy is special and has it’s own uniqueness.
I’m a mommy to 4 kids and this was very well written. I have a 2 month old and I think I just appreciate babies more. I was always wanting them to grow up a little because I love the toddler stage.
You are my hero! This post is truly wonderful – your devotion and obvious love for your children is just so spectacular. So inspiring. Your babes are some lucky kiddos!
Chelsea
http://www.hautechildinthecity.com
How close in age are your first three? I have a two year old, a 10 month old and one on the way this Jan. I’m so nervous about the 3 being so close in age!
Oh stop! My husband and I have been back-and-forthing about having a fourth, and you’re making it sound WAY too awesome. :) (Of course our oldest is only 4.5, so I guess there’s no rush!)
@KaceFace – My first 2 are 15.5 months apart, then there’s about 21 months between #2 and #3 (which means I had all three in 37 months). There are certainly challenges, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Beautiful pictures and love the pant!
So beautiful, congratulations!
What a beautiful post, your little ones are growing so fast. Adorable photos, I love the one where Ethan is trying to wink, at least I think that’s what he’s trying?
Sounds like you have a super busy summer ahead, bet it will fly by though. I hope it doesn’t get too hot where you are. Pregnancy and heat is not a happy combo.
Have a great week.
You look so good!! I love all our clothes
followme@ http://www.studentswife.com
lovely photos cori, and you look fantastic. what a sweet post – you should really compile these for the kids and give it to them one day.
I so love your perspective. Thanks for sharing :-).
I needed this today! with two silly preschoolers in the next room and just 5 weeks from bringing home number 3, i have been overwhelmed to say the least. It helps to remember how precious the next few weeks are for us, not only to enjoy the kicks inside of me but also to enjoy what is left of our family of 4. Time to go play transformers!
I have these pants! I love them. You are adorable!
Beautiful post. You make me want to be a mom again — and after the last few days, I’ve been feeling like I don’t want kids. I guess things change when you actually have them. :)
This is so, so beautiful. Makes me look forward to being a mom someday. -Kari
Oh how I love it. I am a mama of four amazings as well. My babies (they will ALWAYS be my babies) are now 7,8,10 and 12 … four babies in five years. But as they grow and become their own special people … wow. I love and cherish and admire them. I love our tribe. Here’s to the next addition to your own team!
What a beautiful post :-) Thank you for sharing your thoughts on becoming a mother for the 4th time. I know what you mean about feeling like that harried mother having another child. It seems like that’s how mother’s are viewed at times, but each pregnancy is special and has it’s own uniqueness.
Many blessings to you on your new baby girl! :-)
http://hopefaithandblessings.blogspot.com/