We are still pretty new to the whole three kids thing so we are kinda just winging it over here. A little of this a little of that and a whole lotta trial by fire! Luckily River is a suuuuper easy going babe so he’s up for giving us space to practice.
What we’ve learned so far though is that our big kids need to be separated from time to time and have some one on one time with us. Even if Riv tags along they feel special! So we’ve had to be very purposeful in sneaking little dates here and there! So far daddy is winning at the whole date thing because when they go with him they get a slurpee and it’s like all their wildest dreams are coming true! Hahhaha it’s cool though…. I’m only slightly jealous! But whatever! He’s cute! I wanna date him too!
A few weekends ago I tucked River away in my sling and walked hand in hand along the beach with my number one girl. I could tell she felt special and that means the world to me! It’s amazing to hear her heart unfold when she’s given a little bit of time to just talk. No one to interrupt or steal my attention. Just us. Plus we had gelato- she had rasberry and I had coffee!
Once we got home and reunited with the rest of our crew it was so sweet! I could tell that Lou’s heart was more tender and she was less firey and I could tell I was way more patient with her!
In the past I’ve been quick to want to separate myself from my kids when they are “misbehaving” but what God is so graciously teaching me is that in those moments I need to lean into it all the more! When Jeremy and I are having a hard time with one another it’s typically directly related to not having enough time to connect. The same is true with your kids! I’m guilty of thinking I spend all day with them so I’m good! But the trick is deeply connecting in a purposeful and meaningful way. Reading their favorite book, saying yes to wearing a princess dress to the park, making them their favorite snack and sitting down with them to enjoy it. Kids are a lot of work but when we love them well in turn they love us well. Learning together and growing in love takes so much intentionality but the pay off in the day to day as well as the long run is priceless!
So cheers to watching those bright eyes light up! Cheers to our babes learning their worth because of our words AND actions! Cheers to not missing this tender teachable age! Cheers cheers cheers!! You mamas and papas are getting it done and it shows!
Xo!
S
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