Crossing the threshold

I’ll admit it (a popular starting phrase for most of my entries), the first two years with two kids (now aged 4 and 2) was HARD. But we’re  quickly crossing that threshold. Phew!

It’s evidenced in several ways – not the least of which is my own mood and tolerance level for their antics. However, considering that my daughter’s first 18 months were plagued with my postpartum depression journey, my own mood isn’t the best measure.

So, here we go. My top ten list of why it’s easier:

10. My son, a fully potty trained 4yo by day still wears a pull up at night. No big deal, but I did the happy dance when he started getting up in the morning, taking it off himself, and putting it in the garbage! Now I honestly only have to take care of one in diapers.

9. They can both climb into their own car seats. Yes, this is a big deal. I open both car doors, they climb up, and all I have to do is buckle them in.

8. They will sit and paint together at their play table for 45 minutes, giving me time to bake, cook, or clean. Did I say 45 minutes?

7. When we go to the playgrounds (indoor or out), I don’t have to run like a lunatic from one kid to another. I can watch and monitor from the sidelines. Of course, I do love getting on the equipment and playing with them, but now I can do it with less anxiety, knowing they are each capable of climbing and sliding on their own.

6. They both like to eat the same things. No dividing of meals, cooking different things for each.

5. My 4yo thinks it’s a big deal to help take care of the 2yo.

4. We are almost stroller free. Almost.

3. They both know how to follow directions. Not that they always do, but knowing how is half the battle.

2. They are old enough that I feel comfortable leaving them with a few different babysitters. So we have a few to choose from depending on how long we need them for.

1. They play together. Yes, I said TOGETHER. And they are so cute and can be so sweet when they are together!

I love being the mom of two kids – I always have. But everyday I love it a little bit more now, having crossed the threshold from complete craziness to a more well-controlled, organized craziness.

And I love the two of them, and our family, more than I could ever describe in words.