On the Brink of 3!

On the brink of Parker's third birthday I can't help but look back at how much my baby boy has grown and changed...it seems so long ago that he was so small and couldn't talk, or walk...nursing and pumping seems like just a distant memory except when I look down in the shower (lol), and they seemed to consume my whole existence not long ago. I have loved motherhood...the smiles, sweet kisses, laughter, stories, memories,outside adventures, and of course all the firsts of everything. But I can't say that I will ever forget the hard times...severe reflux, sleepless nights, emotional roller coasters of hormones, and just adjusting to life all over again.
In the beginning our days were filled with cuddling, snoozing, nursing, nursing, and did I say nursing? Lots of little tiny dirty diapers, and endless clothing changes from the millions of times that Parker would spew b/c of that mean ol' reflux. I remember being so worried that he was going to get choked in the night and I wasn't going to hear him. The first night home I remember that Chris and I put him in the bassinet next to the bed and we both tried to stay awake all night just to keep and eye on him. Whew. I am not quick to ever say that I am tired or sleepy because I found out back then what tired and sleepy really meant. :) During my prayers each night even now I still thank God for SLEEP!
With this little face I couldn't have ever known a greater love! I found dedication that I didn't even know I had within me. I also found a greater appreciation for all moms out there!
The tongue phase was so funny!
It didn't matter how cold, hot, or windy it was; Parker and I strolled down the dirt road everyday at least 10 times. He never would ride in the stroller on a smooth surface like in a mall, it had to be bumpy and outdoors! Also, I spent many days, weeks, months in pj's all day just trying to find a way to get it all together alone while Chris was at work. It is so funny/challenging that adjustment period!

Photo shoots are still going on because this time is so precious and fleeting. I love looking back at pics like this now when I would try to get him doing something, and then he wouldn't cooperate. Now I am glad that he didn't because I love seeing him in action!


Ok...so even though I wish I could record every single memory, moment, sweet conversation I will end here with a top ten of the things that I have learned as a mom in 3 years.

1. I am beginning to sense that a 3 year old is more determined than a 2 year old.

2. You will sleep again, even though you never think you will!

3. Whoever said that a potty trained child is easier than one in diapers has never ridden to the beach with Parker.

4. It really is harder to discipline your child than you thought BUT you have to no matter what! I remember saying, "If that was my child I would ....". I have eaten those words one to many times.

5. Enjoy all the little moments that you tend to rush through just to get it done ie. bath time, rocking your baby to sleep. I treasure all of our sweet little moments just before bedtime when we are snuggled up praying and talking.

6. Don't try to be supermom, and don't assume that the way you do/did things is the only way because all children are different and what works for one does not always work for the other. Plus people WILL get tired of your advice! :)

7. Read all the books you can before your child gets to certain stages in life just to give you a heads up on what to prepare for and train for...but don't forget to trust your motherly instincts in the process.

8. Don't forget to plan time without the little one. Date nights and just time apart is good for everyone and doesn't make you a bad mom.

9. You don't have to spend a lot of money on expensive toys...they won't care how much they cost and you will just spend hours picking them up so that you can go outside and play with a stick that is much more fun.

10. Take your child to church, talk about God at home, pray together, eat together, go camping, fishing, grocery shopping, get them out. Even though it is harder on you, it teaches them so much about the world around them!

Happy Birthday to my Parker! I love you with all my heart and hope that you teach me many more things in the many years to come!

1st Birthday!

2nd Birthday!

On the Brink of 3!