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January 18, 2005

rewards

We always seem to shine as a family at the end of the day. It is in the quiet (or sometimes not so quiet) moments after dinner and before bed that we are able to truly enjoy our children and put whatever obstacles that we have encountered during the day behind us. All seems brighter once my reinforcements have come in (which would be Mark), dinner is made, and bedtime is in sight. Mark often takes over during these short hours and fully enjoys being a child again with his three boys. He really is a great dad and is often able to relate to them in a way that I just cannot seem to. Somehow I cannot picture myself running around the house fighting "bad guys" with my super powers--laundry basket on one hip and Ollie on the other. Mark can also spend long periods of time with the boys creating different scenarios with action figures that will be repeated throughout the following day. Seeing my husband interact with his children would have to be the highlight of this phase of our lives. We look forward to more independence and time together but are incredibly thankful for these opportunities to laugh at ourselves and enjoy our kids.

Posted by cooleys at 07:09 AM | TrackBack

January 06, 2005

sleep deprivation

This past year went by so quickly. It does not seem that long ago that I was walking around (or more accurately waddling around) pregnant with Oliver and trying to keep up with my other two little guys. There was not much sleep to be had at that point in my pregnancy, and, I am sad to say that I am probably getting even less now. Oliver has been a fantastic baby. He brightens my days with his wet kisses, his silly facial expressions, and hugs. I am sure that I was less eager to have the other boys following me all over the house, tugging at me, and always wanting my (and only my) attention; but I have really enjoyed these moments with Ollie...However, I am tired. I cannot remember the last time that I was able to sleep several, consequtive hours without someone wanting to be fed, changed, or pulling my hair while trying to fall asleep. Oliver is completely unable to pacify himself at night and wakes up several times wanting my attention. I guess that a lack of sleep is just another one of those sacrifices to be when having children. All complaining aside, being a mom is great. I may not be as sharp or quick to react as I used to be. It also takes me much, much longer to read a full novel, but I am sure that much of this will pass.

Posted by cooleys at 12:09 PM | TrackBack