Desiree from Macke Monologues {The Mommylogues Series}

I adore Desiree and am so glad she is guesting for The Mommylogues Series today! We share an uncanny mind-connection that borders on bizarre and she also happens to have two of the best dressed kiddo's around (you'll see what I mean below.)

Hi! I'm Desirée! You can find me over at Macke Monologues where I primarily blog about life with my two littles, Marcus (4) and Julia (almost a year). Occasionally, I share a favorite recipe, a workout I love, or if I'm feeling super ambitious, an attempted DIY or craft. I'd love for you to swing by and say, "Hi!"

Today I thought I'd share a few things I learned when we went from a family of three to a family of four.

1. Kids Are So Much More Resilient Than Credited.

As we awaited the arrival of Julia I was constantly wondering how Marcus would adapt to life with a sibling. I worried he wouldn't transition well, I worried he'd regress with developmental milestones, I worried he just wouldn't adjust. In actuality, Marcus probably transitioned faster and better than me. The way he adores and dotes on his sister is everything I could have dreamed of and more. 

2. How Will I Juggle Time With Two Kids?!

Many days I think I have this figured out. Then something happens - the flu, a cold, teething - and my well oiled machine of having it together kind of comes apart at the seams. I'll be the first to say I'm wound pretty tight, but with two kids I've learned sometimes I just have to go with the flow, and eventually everything works itself out. The phrases, "Hang on," "Just a minute," and "In a second," are no strangers in this house. And, sometimes Julia has to cry a bit before I can get to her. It's like an in-home triage. Treat the most important issues first and keep going from there.
I've also gained a whole new level of respect for a strong cup of coffee in the morning and a good glass of wine at night. 

3.  Patience Is Learned.

I once told someone I prayed daily for more patience. That person replied, "God doesn't give patience, He teaches it." Truer words could not have been spoken. While I struggle with patience, my kids certainly have taught me a thing or two about the practice of it. 

4. I Need One-on-One Time With Each Child. 

Four days a week Marcus is at school for three hours. I use that time each morning to devote to Julia. Finding time for just Marcus and me is a little more challenging. Julia's afternoon nap is our time to pull out the paint, have popsicles on the patio, or simply snuggle up and read a book or catch an episode of Paw Patrol. But, sneaking away for a round of bowling, or heading off to get frozen yogurt or donuts together is the best. 

5. How Will I Ever Love This Child As Much As I Love The First (Marcus)? 

This question weighed heavily on my mind more than I care to admit. But, as my belly grew with Baby Two, seemingly, so did the space in my heart. The second Julia was born, and I laid eyes on her, my heart doubled in size. It's kind of magic how the love multiplied, and it was clear our family wasn't complete until she had arrived.

6. They're Teaching *Me* So Much.

I always thought as a parent I would do all the teaching. Turns out I'm learning so much more from Marcus and Julia than I'll ever fully be able to let them know, or properly thank them for. In such a short amount of time I've learned I'm stronger than I could have ever imagined, I've matured in ways I didn't think possible, and I'm so lucky to be giving and receiving a love that's pure and unconditional. 

There is so much I'm still learning. This parenting gig isn't for the faint of heart! But, it's the most incredible, amazing, worthwhile journey.

To all the mommas out there, I'd love to hear thoughts on this wild thing called motherhood!

Whitney, thank you so much for graciously allowing me to take over your space today!

Desirée

Blog : d-and-s-macke.blogspot.com

IG : @desireemacke or https://www.instagram.com/desireemacke/

Twitter : @ddudding or https://twitter.com/ddudding

Snapchat : desireemacke

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Archives:

My Journey to Motherhood {Introduction to The Mommylogues Series}

Amanda from Tickled Pink

Elizabeth from Chasin' Mason

Beth from Our Pretty Little Girls

Stephanie from Wife Mommy Me

Courtney of Sweet Turtle Soup

Danielle from Sparkles and Lattes

Aubrey of Aubrey Zaruba

Sarah from Seeing All Sides

Jess from Scott Family of Maine

Meghan of The Adventure Starts Here

Liz from Ellie and Addie