Ode to Motherhood

Since the moment I became a mom, I have been so blessed to have never needed a break from that role. That is 17 wonderful months that I have enjoyed more than anyone could know. Yes, some times are challenging and sometimes I think there is no way I can get through that stage, but I have never wanted to give up. That is, until today. Cohen has been fighting some viruses going around for 2 weeks now. He hasn't been sleeping well and has barely touched any food. I've taken him to the doctor to learn that I just need to wait it out. He is also getting 4 more teeth at the moment. It's been really hard for me to watch him go through it all. But even with all that, he has kept his good spirit and has made me laugh in amazement at all the new things he is learning. After another night of David on the couch while I tried to sleep with Cohen in our king size bed (which feels much more like a twin when you have a toddler's feet in your face), the day started out pretty much the same.

Then came nap time. Then went nap time. Try #2. Fail #2. Try #3. Fail #3. Before I knew it, it was 4:30! aaahhhh....Cohen is such a great sleeper, I couldn't believe it was happening. I was soooo exhausted and frustrated at this point. I needed David to get home so I COULD GET A BREAK....before I BROKE!! Cohen was SOOOO fussy and just couldn't be consoled. He was beyond over-tired! I knew that if I didn't get him to sleep, even for a little bit, the night might be a horrible mess. So my last attempt at getting him to sleep, was a little trick I used when he was just a little baby. I put Cohen on the couch and ran up to get my sleepy wrap. It worked wonders when he was little, I figured it couldn't hurt to try. Except now he is 24 lbs and 32 inches long. haha....well to my surprise, he konked out!

Here I was, little ol' me, with a 17 month old dangling from my waist. SNORING!! This is when I realized, that no matter how terrible my day has been, or how much I thought I wanted a break from motherhood....I would NEVER....EVER....want to give up that moment. A moment I never thought I would have with Cohen again. What a blessing. Cohen slept on me for 45 minutes. I will cherish that time forever. Even though he is running, talking, throwing a tantrum and getting his first haircut....he is still my little baby. I love him so much and am so thankful for these special moments that take me by surprise.

I had David take a picture of us, so I will never forget what we looked like. =) Ridiculous and all! Once I finally got him down in bed (my bed that is), I grabbed my camera and took some pictures of my sick, sleeping beauty! I love these shots so much. Hope you enjoy them as well. The joys of being a mother....