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Sunday, January 3, 2010

Mom to Two

Alternately Titled: "I Can't Do This (on my own)"

Good thing I don't have to!

I am working on writing my birth story, to share with you all (I always LOVE reading other women's birth stories, I think it is such an amazing experience, and love to share in the intimacy of it all!), but I am just a little busy over here, so it may be a few more days before it's finished. :)

Hubby's parents helped us get home from the hospital, and have been staying with us while I've been recovering the last few days. They were a huge help, with the kids, and getting the house all cleaned up, and they're always such a blessing to be around, but sadly, they left yesterday afternoon, and then Hubby had to go to a wedding last night.

Leaving me at home with two children. And only one of me. Overwhelming much?

Okay, so it wasn't NEARLY as terrifying as staying home with Z alone for the first time two years ago, but I was still rather scared.

And we survived. I fed both kids, nobody starved, nobody cried too much more than they would on a typical day, I even got Z bathed, and after he went to bed, Natalie slept a little while, and I had some nice time to myself.

Earlier in the day, I was pretty fearful about the whole experience, and as I laid down to rest while the kids napped, God kept bringing two verses to mind:

2 Timothy 1:7 - "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

and Phil. 4:13 - "I can do ALL THINGS through Christ who strengthens me."

This morning, Hubby & Z headed in the deep snow to church (and Z's first day of his 2-year-old Sunday School class - waaaaahhhh), and as I sat on the couch, feeding Natalie, I came across this post that stopped me in my tracks. It was JUST what I needed to hear today. I love the verses that this mother of 9 (!) reminds herself of when parenting her children is above her own strength (which, truthfully is all the time for all of us, right?).

I was totally floored by her description of her 18-month-old stopping to pray for self-control, and turning to God, as she has obviously done in example many times. My prayers are typically private, silent; prayers for strength & help & patience are said inside my head, but not out loud, as an example to my children - and this needs to change. What an godly testimony can come from my openness, and my obedience as I lean on God for the strength I don't have, as He helps me do the things that I can't do on my own.

Including parenting two children at once.

6 comments:

togetherforgood said...

Oh Carrie, I remember the first time I had two little ones home alone with me-- and the first time I had three! I was so nervous, but it quickly becomes just life. Then you get the fun of taking two kids OUT by yourself-- or three. Which always makes me thankful my two older ones are so much older! ;) Can't wait to hear your birth story! :)

Carisa said...

Thanks for your comment on TT, I enjoyed reading your post here! Congrats on your new daughter and prayers for the journey ahead!

;-) Carisa

Liz said...

It is not easy with two little ones, but sometimes it is just so sweet when Zesty climbs up in my lap while I'm nursing Pinky. He never climbed up on my lap before I had her, now he's much more affectionate that way.

hvplace said...

I'm not sure I've ever heard anyone's birth story before (at least not that I can recall) so I'm especially looking forward to reading about your experience. :)

Kim said...

What a great post. I am glad things went well. It is intimidating, but like you said, much better than the first child. You pretty much know what to expect and you know that you are a good mom. Keep resting when they rest. You will be in my prayers!

Erin said...

Congrats. I've seen pictures on facebook and she is precious. I'm so happy for you guys.