This Time Last Year

We have just returned from what seemed like the never-ending summer vacation and needless to say everyone is wiped out. Although the boys keep telling me they want to go back to Grandma and Papa’s house and Nana and Grandpa’s cottage. Mom on the other hand wants to stay put for a few weeks! As much as I love seeing the kids enjoy time with their Grandparents, and am eternally grateful we have fun places and family to visit, some days I crave our crazy routine, hence why I’m ready to stay put for a few weeks.

One highlight of our trip out east was taking the boys on the DC Metro to see The Natural History Museum and The White House. DC is HOT. So instead of walking around we had someone pedal us.

During our recent 4th of July getaway to northern Michigan, Lily was double-fisting sand in her mouth when it hit me: this time last year we were homebound and I was wanting to travel, but my body had other plans as we were home waiting for our sweet girl’s arrival. Being the emotional and yes, sentimental Mom that I am, I started thinking about all of the other emotions, thoughts, and worries I had at this time last year. So, in the spirit of being sappy and missing my pregnant belly, here’s a little more about what I felt this time last year.

This time last year…..

Ted and I were hooked on Game of Thrones! Can I just say beyond celebrating Lily’s first birthday this month, I’m just as excited for season 7 of GoT to begin in a few weeks!

Oh but wait, back to the real reason for this post. My pregnant belly. Not my love for GoT!

I was having contractions at night, strong enough to keep me awake, but not consistent enough to send me to the hospital.

I was certain these two would’ve sent me into labor a week or two before my due date. NOT A CHANCE MOM! I was actually 10 days past when Lily was born.

I was praying God would bless us with a baby that didn’t cry the first 6 months of life like her older brother Anthony did. And if you’ve ever met Anthony, you’ll likely agree he’s been VERY passionate and vocal since birth.

I was making diaper kits so I didn’t have to travel back and forth and up and down stairs to change diapers. Joey was not yet potty-trained so we had 3 in diapers.

I was also spending my life-savings at Target thinking I needed all the lotion, diapers, wipes, and wine in the world before baby arrived.

I was thinking I’d slow down with the blog and business, but I didn’t. Do I regret not slowing down? Nope. But I can tell you that I’m starting to slowly streamline and turn-off more frequently as life seems to be going full-speed. Or my kids are. With one almost dropping his nap, and one starting to become mobile, this Mom is running on empty!

I felt the sweatiest and heaviest pregnant person on planet earth. We are our own worst critic, and honestly looking back at pictures I miss that baby bump and pregnancy glow. Just not the sweaty boobs, butt, and armpits that were a result of taking the garbage out.

I couldn’t hide inside during the hottest time of the year in Michigan for two reasons: Joey and Anthony.

I worried how I was going to make each of my children and my husband feel loved, every day. I’m still working on this one, one year later. Some days there’s not enough coffee in the world to make me want to “Mom.” But other days I’m dishing out hugs and kisses and high-fives and cuddles non-stop. I can tell you that since Lily has stopped breastfeeding and sleeping through the night, I’m MUCH more patient and loving with everyone in my life.

This time last year, I had no idea I would go 10 days past my due date. I had no idea I would give birth to the sweetest, most precious gift God has ever given me. And you know what? I wouldn’t change any of this for the world.

Happy soon to be birthday to my sweet Lily girl! July 21st can’t come soon enough!