This post is all about the beauty of having more kids and what to expect?
If you’re reading this, you most likely already crossed the threshold into motherhood. You might be here because you have two kids and are expecting your third. Maybe you already have 6 kids and you’re curious what someone else’s experience was.
Either way, you’ve discovered the immeasurable blessing of being called “Mom.” And if you’re fixing to hear those words uttered by another human being, count yourself blessed beyond knowing. The number one thing about going from two to three kids is that it is the gift of a lifetime.
So here’s a taste of my story…
The one to two kids shakeup
For me, the transition from one to two kids was a shake up. On one hand I knew what I was doing this time. And on the other, there is just something completely different about have two little ones that I could not have anticipated.
It was a bit difficult having a 20 month old and a newborn. I had grown used to putting all my mommy energy into ONE kid. Flash cards, healthy meals, playtime, a perfect schedule, etc.
When I had my second, it was a complete life change for not only me but for Myla (my firstborn) as well. I suddenly could no longer give her my undivided attention 24 hours a day.
It felt like fits and demands doubled overnight. While at the same time having to adjust to a newborn sleep schedule and all that jazz.
It wasn’t all hard times though- the 1 to 2 kids transition also came with double the smiles, double the love and double the joy. All from the simple presence of another life in our home❤️ And ANY questions I had about being able to love another baby as much as I loved Myla dissipated the moment I set eyes on my little Anthony.
You will adjust in time
Plus when you have your second kid, you either have 90% of the things you need already or you realize you don’t need 90% of the things you thought you did.
There was also something just sweet and exciting being able to say, “my kids.” Kid with an S. “I have two kids…” It just had a lovely ring to it. ☺️
Going out, morning routines, nap times, baths- it all had to get refigured out. Not to mention fitting in some time to myself.
It took me probably 6 months to a year to feel comfortably adjusted. Once I found a good flow and became used to the new workload of being a mom of two, life seemed to find it’s rhythm.
When BAM. Positive pregnancy test.
That’s how it goes, right? 😅
I was obviously thrilled. New life is the biggest blessing and I immediately loved my little baby beyond words.
Part of me was a little nervous too. Would my attention become even more divided? Would I ever get out of the house with 3 babies?? Would there be any jealousy between siblings?
All the questions.
Another baby will bring peace
As baby got closer, most thoughts subsided to ones dreaming of holding him. But I would occasionally wonder if I could do it or do it well. I’d watch YouTubers and read blogs of moms who had been where I was. But I knew from previous experience, some questions can only be answered upon arrival.
And to my delight, out third baby came with ease and not to mention fast! He was born in 1 hour after my water broke!
I was in newborn bliss. My anxieties and cares melted away as I rocked and held my baby all I wanted.
By the third kid, you really have a grip on what works best for you with things like feeding and sleeping. You feel confident on another level which brings such peace and ease. I was able to soak in every moment with Fredrik as a newborn because of that.
You become way more chill
I think I actually swallowed a chill pill at some point too. Messy rooms, strict diets and unbrushed teeth weren’t going to end the world anymore. Having my third baby felt like it tipped me over an amazing edge of really knowing what was important and what wasn’t worth my energy. I really was able to have amazing baby bonding time while the kids played and we all fell into our new normal.
The kids showed no signs of jealousy. They were so gentle and interested in their new baby brother, Fredrik.
Your older kids become closer as siblings & more independant
Fredrik was a breath of fresh air. He brought peace and balance and joy to our home overnight. I couldn’t help but think that three kids was somehow easier than 2? Does that make sense? I guess it’s mommy math.
It was probably that my two older kids had lots more time to bond, play, and learn to self entertain. I just didn’t give them as much attention and my fears of them feeling rejected went away as I saw how amazing it was for my kids to do things together.
You do have less free time
Now, I don’t want to paint a picture that it’s never hard. Because it is. Each day guarantees a solid 15 fits, 8 ish diaper changes and about 3 bedroom tornadoes. Some things are more challenging too. Things like going out with the kids OR trying to go out without them. Speaking of “going out”, I definitely have less free time. Like the time I took to write this post was during naps and after the kid’s bedtime.
But there is a special progression of selflessness that a woman goes through when she has a baby. And it’s a beautiful thing to be content. If there is one thing three children have taught me it’s contentment. I am ok being covered in stickers and eggs from breakfast until 2pm most days.
You find contenment
I actually laugh about it. With kids, perfect doesn’t exist. And that’s a beautiful part of love. Its more about who I am with than what we are doing. I’m more interested in making memories than hyping over what’s going viral.
I’d rather enjoy ice cream with my kids than kill myself trying to fit into high school jeans. Having kids changes you. It matures you. I feel more confident and sure of who I am since becoming “Mom.” The biggest takeaway that I can tell you to expect is that you’ll discover more of who you are. If your perspective is good, it’ll be a wonderful experience. Embrace the changes and roll with the punches.
Whether your in the thick of it or see it down the road, remember to love your story. There is beauty in it all.
I’d love to hear your stories and thoughts! Comment below and share this with a pregnant Mama❤️
Stay happy Mama’s! 🌻
This post is all about going from two to three children and what to expect!
