Managing Expectations

I think "managing expectations" is a huge part of parenting and probably applicable to most of life's challenges. I remember being so crushed that Zadie was a colicky baby. How could I have two colicky babies? The constant crying really does your head in and you literally try EVERYTHING! For us baby wearing, having Zadie in our bed those first two months, and the magic weapon of bouncing with her on a giant exercise ball seemed to make things manageable. I remember trying to have her sleep in her own bed during those early weeks and of course she woke up as soon as I moved her. I didn't really expect her to be able to sleep without breathing me in, it was a perfect example of managing my expectations. If I didn't expect her to sleep by herself than I wouldn't be let down when she didn't. After Zadie calmed a bit I was able to move her into her own bed and not wear her for all her naps. It was liberating, even more so because I didn't really expect her to work it out! Well for all that worrying, Zadie has become an amazing sleeper and a super happy goo goo baby. We have tons of smiles!

Back-lit but still a good picture & really does her hair justice!

I continue to manage my expectations daily. I am much happier and content for it.