Parenthood

In hopes to be the best mom possible to Ella, I picked up a copy of "Parenting the Strong Willed Child," because, let's face it, she's strong willed.  Although I've noticed her mellow more since I've been home over the summer, she's still a child who knows her mind but doesn't necessarily know how to mind.  In the long run, I think I'd rather have it that way.  In the day to day, it can be an extreme challenge (hence my recent purchase).  Even before chapter one, I found this truly inspiring quote from the Carnegie Corporation:

"The challenges of parenthood are daunting, but its rewards go to the core of what it means to be human- intimacy, growth, learning, and love."

So absolutely true.  Amelia woke up early this morning not feeling well.  I brought her into bed with me and she layed across my chest.  As I laid there and listened to her sweet rhythmic breathing, I was touched by just how precious these moments with our children can be.  It makes all the hard stuff (and there's plenty of hard stuff) completely worth it.  I love my children more than ANYTHING in the world.  I know they say love your spouse more, but he takes second fiddle to these two little darlings or at least only ties for first (depending on the moment).  Having time home with them has been a precious gift this summer, though who knows what behaviors will emerge from all of us once it's back to the grind of work and daycare.  All I know is I have to embrace the moments, whether laying on the hammock with my sweet Elle, or laying in bed listening to my little Amelia breathe on my chest, it is these moments that define life and living!