11 Weeks

It's been 11 weeks- and in some ways it feels like it's been 11 years and in some ways, 11 minutes. Either way, I feel a little sad today that my maternity leave is almost over. It's certainly been hard and there were days and moments where I would have loved to just go back to work instead of doing the hard work I was doing at home...but I have also loved spending 11 weeks with my sweet Holden Eloise. She is such a doll and I love her so much.

So, looking back at the last 11 weeks, here is what I have learned.

1) Life is broken into seasons. The season you are in now is not going to last forever- good or bad. So find the best in the season you're in- because when it's over, it's over, and chances are you are going to miss some things from it.

2) Your best is good enough. Rest in that fact.

3) The best things in life aren't easy. I don't think I need to elaborate on that.

4) DVR is A.MAZ.ING. I have watched more good television in the wee hours of the morning than I ever would have without it. Sometimes, usually after "It's a Brad, Brad World" or "The Challenge" I have been a little excited to wake up at 2:00 a.m. to feed Holden and watch my shows. Thank you Time Warner Cable.

5) If you know or meet a new or single parent- offer them a smile, a hug, some encouragement, or better yet, some help. Being a new parent is hard and I can't imagine being a single parent. I have all the admiration in the world for single parents- shout out to my mom.

6) It's important to have things for yourself. While being a mom is my favorite and most important role (tied with that of being a wife) I am a better person, wife, mom, etc. because I have things for myself that I enjoy and feel proud of.

7) Aden & Anais swaddle blankets are the best there are. Period. Great gift.

8) You cannot put a price on the value of family and friends that help you through the tough seasons you are in.

9) Don't underestimate the power of the following: a nap, a smile, or a vibrator. (I'm talking about Holden's vibrating bouncy seat, but who am I to suggest it's limited to that?) :)

10) Don't rush. Whether you're enjoying yourself or not- there is a reason things are the way they are- there is something you're supposed to learn. What is it? Chances are if you rush through it- the scenario will keep coming back until you work through it anyway.

11) Working out can keep you sane. It's important, and...

12) Tiny baby acid reflux is the absolute worst. Ugh.

13) Throw your worries into prayer. Amazing things can happen.

14) Behind every good man is a good momma or a good wife- and you can take that to the bank.

And that's about all I've got right now. It's been hard. It's been miserable. It's been amazing. It's been joyful. I'm sad it's almost over, but I'm glad I get to call Holden mine, far beyond my maternity leave. I am so thankful for my little family.