Our New Normal

 In the not so recent past I would catch myself saying things like "when I'm a mom I won't do that" or thinking things like "well it can't be that hard..." - it's funny how quickly my tune has changed!  I think it probably started in the hospital.  After Max arrived (via a long labor and eventual c-section) - I became a mom and Rob became a dad.  The things that Rob saw and helped me through...I can't even.  I cannot even.  Those moments had a way of humbling me and probably preparing me for what was ahead.  When they say "having a baby changes everything." They mean every. thing. In an abstract way I knew our lives would be different, but I really had no idea what was in store for us.  It's not just "Carrie and Rob + 1".  This new plus 3 has completely changed this former party of 2.  I'm not just me with a baby.  I'm a mom.  And as much as I may have resisted that change, it's safe to say I'm more than okay with it now. 

In the spirit of embracing change...here's a glimpse into our new normal.

 

It started in the basement.  The basement has never been what I would consider completely organized.  But - what it lacked in organization - it more than made up for in rubbermaid tubs.  The tubs at least protected our posessions from water and spider webs and helped me not lose my mind.  But then we added diapers to the mix.  I don't know if you know - but diapers are expensive.  So - if I can buy in bulk or there is a coupon - You better believe I'm picking up diapers.  The diaper box to rubbermaid tub ratio is quickly increasing - while the floor space is quickly decreasing.

Walk up the stairs to the main level of our house. Rob knows I always like to keep a certain level of clean (especially in the main living areas).  I think because there are so many things I can't change about our house...like the size, neighborhood, number of rooms etc. that when it comes to cleaning I become a little pyscho.  It's one of the things I can control (I mentioned I like control...right?).  Everything has a place in our house.  And, if it doesn't have a place - it has a basket, bin, cabinet, or rubbermaid tub that it goes in.  Enter Maxwell James.  It's so crazy how much crap you need with a baby.  I use the term "need" loosely - as I'm sure many of the things we have are just luxuries...but that stuff can get out of control quick!  The precious real estate in our family room has now been consumed by a pack and play, swing, and 3.2 million books.  And now, instead of my carpet...I see the exercise mat, rattles, balls, blocks, and a myriad of other tiny human toys!

(Exercise mat = great enrichment for Mr.Max)

(Trying to contain the small library of books and toys)

(When it can't be contained...piles become my best friend)

 

Moving up a level to the kitchen....at any given point you might see 8-10 bottles, caps, nipples, collars, and other bottle washing supplies strewn across the counter.   At first I was all, "why did I register for these dishwasher baskets?"  I will just hand wash and sterilize the bottles with my organic bottle soap..blah blah blah...  Two months in - I'm about putting those bottles in the dishwasher.  Ain't nobody got time for that! Amiright??! 

And, if you part the blades of grass on our "lawn" drying rack on the counter- you might see about 6 pacifiers.  Going into this whole motherhood thing I thought - "my child will never use a pacifier" ha!  First night in the hospital when Max wouldn't stop screaming?  Yeah, we totally popped that pacifier in his mouth - and now, it's the only brand he'll take!  So, of course we went and bought more at Babies R'Us.  The most common phrase as we exit our house now..."did you get the pacifier?".  While he doesn't need it all the time and actually spits it out frequently - there are certain times when it just helps soothe him in a way that Rob or I can't. I'm okay with that.

Upstairs - you will find another addition to the bedroom. (Spoiler alert - it's not the sexy kind!)  Enter the monitor.  Previous to Max - Rob and I were great sleepers!  Enter a nine pound bundle of joy that needs round the clock care.  Sleep?  What's that?  I joked with my friend Liz today that I feel like now I sleep with one eye and ear open at all times!  I crank both monitors up to the highest level before tucking myself in for the night.  Now, I don't get up at Max's every peep - but they provide a certain level of security - and they act as flash lights too.  I love a two for one! :) 

And...when all else fails - I've turned to coffee.  Forget about Diet Coke or energy drinks - I go straight for the cofee in the morning. 

So...when I really think about it - I owe a lot of people an apology.  To my mom, Rob's mom, all my mommy friends, who I was so quick to judge.  I'm sorry.  I had no idea.  No idea what I was in for.  No idea how hard it would be. How brave you are.  Or, how lonely the days could be. Or how much you may have needed my support.  Or a frozen meal.  Or a phone call.  Or heck, a cup of coffee.  On this motherhood journey, I'm only about 8 weeks deep - but I get it.  I really get it. 

Thankfully, I have this guy. 

And this guy.

 

So...it's totally worth it and I wouldn't trade our new normal for anything!