I can do this!

When I was pregnant with Judah, I felt like I could barely take care of my kids.  Between the lack of sleep, the painful hips and back and the constant jabs in my belly, I often felt completely overwhelmed about caring for my growing family.  And I started to stress that I wouldn't be able to do it (life) with three kids!

But, I'm so happy (and admittedly quite proud) that I'm actually doing it (life) with three kids!  And I think I'm doing it well!  Everyone is fed and cleaned and dressed by 9:30 most mornings - even the mornings when Curtis is at work.  I've also been on my own many evenings because Curtis is working a lot, and I'm able to do the bedtime routine for everyone.  We still have time to read stories and go to gymnastics and playgroup and Kara hasn't missed a dance class yet.  And Judah is thriving as the baby in this clan - he gets lots of love and cuddles and is growing like a weed.  So life is good and we are doing great as a family of five!

Please note:  this is NOT easy and should not be attempted by the faint at heart!  I sleep less, move faster, cry more, multi-task and juggle constantly!  I fail in some way every day ~ I lose my patience, I yell, I make bad choices.  But God is gracious - and so are my kids - and we just keep trying and loving and living some more.

Anyways, I'm not sure what I really wanted to say about this life I'm living now, other than that it's really hard, but I can do it!  And I'm happy.

Special girl

I know that in the past I have blogged about how difficult our Kara Hope can be.  How we don't often see things eye to eye and that disciplining her has been a real frustration for me.

That's why I wanted to write today about how lovely my little girl is!  Ever since having Judah, she has completely risen to the occasion and is the most wonderful, loving, helpful big sister ever!  Whenever Judah is crying, she right away tries to rock him or give him a soother or just quietly shushes him.  When I ask her for help (which is many, many times a day) she always says "sure Mom!"  She has been extra cuddly and wants to give Curtis and I lots of hugs and kisses and often says "I love you Mom" for no reason.  She has become very perceptive about what's going on around her and has said things like "I know it is really nice for you when I help you, Mom, so I'll even clean up Jonas' toys".  Wow!  I have to admit that I am loving this girl.  And I'm working hard to tell her every day how much I appreciate her help and terrific attitude and loving heart.

I know that we'll still have bad days, and I will love her through them, but I sure am enjoying her on these good days!