In my last post, I asked for suggestions for blogging topics. I plan on writing on all of them at some point. My sister in law Megan asked me to write on what I am learning about motherhood. Here goes…

I’m learning to live in the moment. I’ve always been one of those who’s guilty of looking towards the next big thing in life, and right now, I just want to stay put. Grayson’s developmental delays have in some ways been a blessing- I am cherishing that he is staying in each stage a little longer, and yet, it still seems to be racing by so fast.

I’m learning to ask for help. No one can do this job alone, and no one should. Grayson does not benefit when I’m totally stressed out and/or resentful. Whether it be asking a friend to go with me to a doctors appointment or my mom to babysit on a Friday night, I’m learning that people are willing to help me and it makes life so much easier.

I’m learning not to judge. My breastfeeding experience taught me this more than anything. There’s no right way to parent, and there are always reasons behind people’s individual choices. I do what’s right for my baby and family, and it may not be what’s right for yours. That’s ok.

I’m learning the value of friendship. My life is so richly blessed right now because of my wonderful friends. Since having Grayson, I have grown so much closer to my friends who are on the same journey of motherhood, and have also made some new friends (both in real life and in the blogosphere) as a result of this new stage of life. I am being honest, I have the most wonderful friends in the world- funny, caring, and real.

I’m learning that life will never be perfect. I am doing the job I’ve always wanted- I have a husband, a house, and a baby. And yet, there are things in my life that are not ideal that I struggle with every day. I am frustrated that Ryan is gone so much, that Grayson is not sitting up yet. It makes me crazy that Gabby barks her head off at 5:00 every morning and Izzy poops in the house. I don’t like my body or the fact that I can’t afford to buy new clothes. I wish I had a bigger laundry room and shower. But there is more good in my life than bad, more perfect than imperfect. I am thankful.

I’m learning to be open to new ideas. These days, I don’t knock any idea until I try it. Babywearing- tried it, not for me. Cloth diapers- experimenting now, and so far I’m loving them. Grayson has three therapists who we absolutely love and all three of them have fantastic ideas and techniques to help him develop. I’m learning to rely on others’ experience and expertise.

I’m learning that I was right. I always thought being a Mom would be my “thing” but feared quitting my job to do it full time might make me bored and/or crazy. So far, I was right- this is totally my “thing”. I may be a little crazy sometimes, but I’m definitely not bored! Some days are hard, and there’s been a lot of tears and worry the past 8 months, but for the most part, I LOVE my job.