Loving My Children Well

I have come to the conclusion that children are like puzzles to which you are not given all the pieces.

We can't always parent "by the book" or even the same way as our neighbor. Every family is different and even more importantly so is every child. While our core parenting values will remain, each of our children will learn and grow in different ways requiring us to alter our method of teaching and correction.This concept is both challenging and humbling as we make mistakes along the way.

I have learned in my two and a half years as a parent that many of the things I thought so very important in the beginning simply didn't work for my family or at least not in that particular season of our life. I have learned to eat my own words and be willing to change.

Flexibility and consistency are key. Yet how do those two concepts coexist?

Aiden crumbles without a consistent routine and so we have found consistency to be very important both in our daily life and in our parenting. It can be so very hard to remain consistent as the seasons of life bring crazy change and exhaustion. Yet for him it is so very important.

At the same time we have learned that being flexible and willing to change parts of our routine or parenting that are not working make for a happier and healthier home. So we walk the fine line and learn along the way.

I will admit we are in a very difficult season of life and while we wouldn't wish for anything else it is not without it's challenges.

Aiden is struggling in many areas seen and unseen by those around us (post soon) and will be evaluated for Occupational Therapy next Monday. We are hoping for some answers and some guidance to help him overcome a few of the struggles he is facing.

Emma Grace is struggling with reflux or colic. Hours of screaming in agony are a part of our daily routine and it's exhausting. Aiden often doesn't handle her screaming well and decides to join her which only makes those moments harder. Once she calms enough to sleep at night she does great but it often takes hours to get us there. She is no longer happy during nap time and as Aiden wakes early that means this little Momma isn't getting much sleep lately.

I know it's just a season and it is totally worth it. My days are filled with so much joy that I can't complain even if those hard hours cause a few tears.

It has been said the joy is in the journey not the destination. Hold on folks it's a wild ride and we are loving (almost) every minute!