Being a Mom

I just wanted to step up on my soap box for a minute. Being a work-at-home mom can be hard, let's face it. It is nap after nap after feeding after diaper, and you get the picture. However, there is so much to enjoy. I love all of Eli's smiles, cooing, and laughing. I love to play with him and see his eyes light up as he begins to understand things. I have come to know that like so many moms I have spoken with, being a mom is hard but worth it. I can't think of anything that I have done in life that was worthwhile that was really easy. The most rewarding things in our lives take the most work and perseverance. The experience of becoming and being a mom has made me even more grateful for my own mother and to the mothers out there that I turn to for advice. Although I don't think you can ever become an expert, it is nice to be able to turn to the experienced mom if nothing else for affirmation and suggestions. Above all, I am grateful for the opportunity to be able to see my little one grow up and be the one to care for him.

Eli Update

Eli will be four months old tomorrow. The time has sure flown by! He is rolling over now, grabbing anything near him and putting it in his mouth, smiling, and even laughing. He is a joy to be around. I have been remiss about posting pictures of him, so here are some good ones and a video.

Christmas

We had a wonderful Christmas. We ended up being able to go to Indiana to visit my family. My parents and brother Matt and his family were there. It had been two years since we had seen Matt, Shelley and their kids. It was a much needed and enjoyable visit. I enjoyed playing with Faith and Clay. I was glad to see that Faith remembered Michael and I.

We were a bit worried, though, that we would even get there in time. Our flight on December 23rd was cancelled because Chicago airport was closed and we had a layover there. So we had to fly on December 24th. It was not very nice to have to go to the airport two days in a row. But, we finally made it.

I loved that Michael and I were able to go out a couple of times while my parents watched Eli. We went out to eat with Matt and Shelley and then we went out for our anniversary on December 29th. I also enjoyed the help caring for Eli.

Here are some pictures from our trip in no particular order.

Michael and I all ready to go to go out and celebrate our anniversary

Matt liked the gift card that we got him to Home Depot

The kids couldn't wait to open their toys and start playing, but that was easier said than done.

I love this picture! Although, I just realized it is not from our trip to Indiana.

Mom and Dad lounging while watching movies on New Year's Eve

Eli with a slight grin for the camera