As KC and I were having a leisurely Mexican feast at my FAVEorite Mexican place, we delved into the topic of what we could improve on, with our family in mind. Ever since I became pregnant, then was on bedrest, and then brought home three very needy babies, things have obviously changed around here. Some things for the better (three chubby faces to smooch every single day, etc.) and some things for the worse (never-ending mess, etc.). You see, a lot of what used to go on in our daily lives has been legitimately pushed to the side, and for quite some time. I’m sure most first-time parents feel the same way. And I know that most of what we used to find a priority will continue to take a back seat as our lives are still (and probably always will be) in a state of craziness (an always-clean house, in-shape bodies, or well-planned meals, for example), but I do think we can start to work some of the regular stuff back in. I remember when I was able to actually make decent dinners again some months ago, and it felt great. These are the kinds of things I’m talking about. Simple, everyday things that we really didn’t have time for while getting used to our new life as the parents of triplets. I feel like it’s finally time to get my life in order again, mentally, spiritually, and physically.
We also think that the babies are in a highly observant stage right now, and we should take advantage of this optimal learning period. Of course, they are still babies, and won’t really get it most of the time. In fact, they’ll probably pick up more on what we DON’T want them to see/hear, rather than what we do (like when Ruby was clearly mimicking my outburst this morning, forcing me to smile amidst my impatience) . But I hope that including them in family prayer, or watching me pick up the toys and put them away will set a good standard for them. It’s going to take years for any of these lessons to stick, I’m sure, but I keep thinking that this is my time to start teaching my kids little things like that.
It’s weird to think how my job is changing as a mother. At first it was all about keeping the babies fed, happy, and getting them to sleep in any way possible. Now they can almost manage those things by themselves, with a little help from the parents of course, while new things come into play. It’s time for everyone to get back into the groove. Only, I think this groove will be much more fun than before the kids came along.
Oh, and here we are on our little date. Those guys behind KC are the awesome duo that plays there every Friday night.
I know, it’s lame when there are no pictures of the babies. Give me a couple days, and I’ll make up for it.
6 comments:
Yippee for date night! I am glad you two are good about taking some time to hang out with just the two of you. VERY important!
This isn't the Alamo, is it? If not, where is it? I'm always interested in learning about great Mexican food. yummm. I'm glad you guys have some regular date nights!
Yes Michelle, it is!
Yay, we like that place too! The funny thing is I ate there one time, maybe 10 years ago, and never quite remembered where it was. I had been telling Ron about it for awhile and one day as we were driving down Kenilworth, I saw it! I can't believe it was so easy to find and I didn't remember where it was for so long. We have enjoyed it since re-discovering it :).
LAME! :)
I like that Mexican place. I'm glad you two got out. And that you're thinking about how to improve things. I think about when my boys were Jane's age, and how I spent every moment with them in therapy, and how I ignore Jane. I have to remind myself to pay attention to her sometimes. Especially with the cast, sometimes the TV is just easier.
You both look nice, but exhausted. Good for you to go out.
From my experience, don't expect too much. If you do that you'll get frustrated. Do one new little thing maybe (like the small sewing project here and there.) Something actually doable. You're still in the middle of things and will be for a long time. I saw some parents at IKEA whose 4-yr-old triplets were all in their soccer clothes eating hot dogs. They said it was easier now but still a lot of work.
Keep a prayer in your heart. Prayers don't have to be formed into words. It's an attitude, too. Put a scripture on your mirror and memorize it. Little stuff.
You are both doing a wonderful job.
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