Things I've learned so Far...

I've learned that 9 times out of 10 Caroline is the ringleader. I've learned that 9 times out of 10 Parker is guilty by association. I've learned that they break out in fits of uncontrollable laughter just by looking at each other and then it makes me laugh uncontrollably. I wasn't allowed in on the joke; they could be laughing at me for all I know. It will probably be that way the rest of my life and I'm ok with that because I love seeing them enjoy life together. 

I've learned that Caroline is a mini version of myself and Parker is a mini version of Dave.  

I've learned that Caroline is a tiny tornado. Straight crazy. Always on the go, such a spark plug, full of laughs, more energy than the energizer bunny, "talks" non-stop, such an adventurer, randomly nervous around unfamiliar faces (seems so opposite of her personality), loves music, has a laugh that sounds like a baby goat (I DIE over it!!), and lights up when her friends and family enter the room. She is full of love, full of life, and a true joy!

I've learned that Parker is my little love! He is so loving, so sweet, a thinker, his smile literally melts my heart, he LOVES his sister! He masters something new and is so proud of himself and you can see the excitement in his face at his new "skill". He plays with one toy, inspecting it and figuring it out....until his sister snatches it out of his hands. :) He is SO ticklish. His laugh is absolutely contagious, his expressions are vast and always give us a laugh, and he is a true joy. 

I've learned that hearing "momma" is cuter than any puppy and absolutely never gets old. I've learned when two children start crawling they seldom go in the same direction. I've learned that getting a photo of the two of them where they are both sitting, looking, AND smiling is basically impossible and would be a Christmas miracle. I better learn photoshop! ha! 

I've learned that our chances of making it to 6pm with no tears (by me) and with most of my sanity are directly related to the weather. Being able to get out of the house is a game changer. Also a game changer- sitting up in high chairs. While a complete circus, we can actually go out to eat with more ease now. Lots of Cheerios are involved and we tip even more now but it's a version of normalcy creeping back in and it's wonderful. Speaking of Cheerios...I've learned that my children can consume an amazing amount of Cheerios and not explode. We've had a few "lingering" dining experiences where we wondered their threshold.

 I've learned humility in dropping a screaming child off in the church nursery because she's nervous. I've learned the difficulty of getting 3 people up, dressed, packed and out of the house. And I've even done it a few times with approximately 180 seconds to spare thinking that just maybe this time I'll be on time. Then someone poops and you're changing diapers in the backseat of the car. 

I've learned that it's just not about me anymore. It never really should have been but my "new life" leaves no room for selfishness. I love the freedom that comes with that. At any given point I, my children, or all of the above will look like, smell like, feel like, and maybe even act like a hot mess. And I've learned that that's ok.

I've learned that we're all just doing the best we can. I've learned that pinterest should be used sparingly and that comparison is the thief of joy. We all put our best foot forward and our social media foot is generally the one that just got a pedicure and not the 2 week old "at home pedi" with more chips than polish. I've learned that one kind word, one word of encouragement, one "atta-girl", one kind glance and a smile can literally save your day. 

I've learned life is crazy. Crazy good.