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I am adjusting to being a mother of three.  I am stretched in so many directions – I am still trying to find my balance.

And for me, that means spending time with each of my girls.  They each need special time.  I need that time with them.

I have been a mother for 7 years now (and I’m sure many of you have more experience at this!), and I finally realized that the most important thing for me are the values that I want my girls to exhibit as adults.  That sisterhood is a gift, not everyone gets to experience it.  I want to build their character and instill inner peace so that they know that they are beautiful, smart, and confident.  That they should take time to hold the door open for someone behind them, pray and give thanks, bring a meal to a family in need.  And I realize that that this has everything to do with my behavior – my thoughts and actions, my tone of voice, the example that I set forth.

It has little to do with the details that I find so many young mothers agonize over – bottle or breastfeeding, co-sleeping, cloth diapering or disposable, sleep training or not, daycare or nanny, when to potty train – I could go on and on.  These are simply details, phases, which will eventually pass. Yet I find that so many mothers agonizing over these things.

This perspective has helped get through my days.  That I shouldn’t concentrate on little things or small battles (which can be many with little ones).

  • Sharon - September 17, 2013 - 10:43 pm

    Well said.ReplyCancel

  • Vickie - September 18, 2013 - 3:47 am

    beautiful :)ReplyCancel

  • Jade Sheldon-Burnsed - September 18, 2013 - 8:47 pm

    You sound like such a lovely mother. Those girls are blessed to have you and each other…ReplyCancel

  • Erica Lea - September 19, 2013 - 11:40 pm

    What a lovely perspective! That encourages me to try to be a good example for Helen. Thank you for the reminder! :) And gorgeous photos, as always.ReplyCancel

  • sarah - September 25, 2013 - 8:39 am

    these are all so, so beautiful. i love the way you capture your girls, and your home. your images speak for themselves of the peace and joy you guys all share together. loved your words.

    p.s. your new little one is so precious!ReplyCancel

  • jenny - October 3, 2013 - 3:00 pm

    thanks for this beautiful post. i read it several times and found it very encouraging. as a first time mom, i struggle with all those details every day, and this helps put things into perspective.

    congratulations on another beautiful little girl, azzari! i look forward to seeing more photos around here. :)ReplyCancel