The miracle of life

I know it sounds cliche, but today I found out first hand just how true a statement that is. I was lucky enough to be a part of little Jack's arrival (thanks Jeni :P ) I still, hours later, am unable to articulate just how awesome it was to watch a baby be birthed into this world. It was an experience I will forever be grateful to Jeni for. I am at a loss for words ( I know-can you believe that!) It truly was a defining moment for me. I felt so many different things all at once, but most of all I felt extremely proud to be a woman. Jeni was AMAZING! I am soooooo proud of her. Congrats to Jeni and family, love you!

The sweetest thing

This past week I went on a mini vacation with my family ( and a few others). We all had a really great time. The best thing for me was stepping back and seeing things thru my children's eyes for the first time again. You almost forget the beauty in things that are not new to you, but to be given the chance to re-experience that thru the eyes of your child, I don't think there's a more wonderful thing. It was especially awesome to see it thru Ethan's eyes. Being that he's four, I think he is really starting to notice things in a way that he has never before in his young life. He is so much more engaged now as opposed to this time last year. It's a gift to be able to go on this "journey" of discovery with him. I am fortunate to be able to spend alot of time with him, time that I didn't get with my older two boys. Maybe that's the difference, maybe it's because he's the youngest and I know now if I don't slow down and enjoy this, I'll never get another opportunity. Lately, I feel the most connected with him. I think there are many reasons for this. Justin and Thomas are older now and have begun asserting their independence ( which I'm grateful for, but all you moms know how sad it is) they no longer need me the way they once did. I knew it was coming, they are at the age when parents are fazed out as the most important thing in their world. It's ok, it's normal. But this is another reason why I feel that much closer to Ethan, he still needs me, in a way Justin and Thomas no longer do. I think I've just realized how much I need him. I'm breathing in every moment this time around. And to be completely honest, it feels good to be needed.