Before you Became a Mom

Before you were called Mama you were his. Before you were called Daddy you were hers. You had each other's undivided attention. You’d greet him at the door with a kiss and a hug. You would talk about your day uninterrupted. You had time to look into each others eyes, to laugh and smile. You sat on the couch together after a long day and you could rest and just take each other in. Rub his feet. Rub her back. Stay up late, sleep the morning away. It was calm, orderly, simple. 

But when you became a Mama, there was a big shift. You’re unable to greet him at the door. Hopefully you're able to turn around and acknowledge that he is home. Your thoughts before we’re, "I’m so happy he’s home!" to ,"Oh thank the Lord he’s home, two more hands to help me." You used to wear cute outfits for him, now you’re wearing spit up. You used to be able to talk uninterrupted but now you can’t get out a sentence without hearing, "Don’t touch that, or be careful, or (my personal favorite right now ) please don’t lay on top of your sister."

Before you became a Daddy you would come home and you used to be able to sit on the couch, relax and watch ESPN, or go for a run.  You used to hear, "Can I get you a drink or snack? and now you hear, "Can you get her shoes on, can you clean that up please?" Your day used to end at 5 now it doesn’t end till your newborn falls asleep.

But remember, remember in the midst of it all, remember you are still his. Remember you are still hers. Remember why you fell in love with him. Remember how she takes your breath away. That under the craziness, the mess, the chaos and the sleepless nights…remember that you can’t get through this without each other. That you are on each other's side. And even in the moments when it doesn't appear to be so, you are still each others number one.

So, be intentional with each other.
Say thank you when without asking he changes a diaper. Smile at him when he drops all of his things and jumps right into playing with the kids on the floor.
When he gets home, no matter what is going on go kiss him! When you are filling up yet another sippy cup, get a drink for him too!
Thank him for how he has helped, loved and supported you.
​Remember he has had a long day too. Be gracious, be loving.

Tell her she’s beautiful, even though she won’t believe you today, then tell her again.
Tell her that she is a wonderful mother, even though every method to get your baby to sleep on her own is not working and she feels like she's failing, then give her a big BIG hug.
Ask her how she is, knowing full well you are going to get a very long detailed break down of the days events. Make her stop doing 100 different things at once and grab her and hug her so tightly.
Remember she has had a long day too. So be gracious, be loving.

Be present, even when being present is really hard.
When things are just overwhelming, stop look at each other and smile…then keep going.
Be brave for each other. You will look back and miss this season. 

You are his.
He is yours.

Much Love, 
​   Heather