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I almost decided to just skip this week, but I’m trying to practice consistency. I have written this weekly newsletter every week since mid-February, so I don’t want to quit now! It has kept me writing every week, and most importantly, it has kept me inspired.
This past week has been nuts — I am still adjusting to being a working mom, my postpartum mental health is slowly declining, and the reality of my impending graduation and entrance to the workforce has been weighing on me. I remember with my first child, it wasn’t until several months after she was born that I really began to struggle, and unfortunately, I think we’re there. It was probably wishful thinking to think that maybe I would avoid all mental health struggles this time around, but still, at least I know how to manage myself better.
There were also lots of good moments this past week, too. I was able to spend a ton of time with family, and Kevin and I even snuck out for a night, leaving all five kids with my friend so we could enjoy a nice dinner together. The highs made the lows more bearable, and despite any struggles that may have occurred, I am proud of myself (and my husband) for continuing to figure things out, juggle a lot, and keep our heads above water.
Also, my Substack hit 200 subscribers recently! While it might seem like a small number to some, if 200 people showed up to my house, I would be very overwhelmed. In fact, they wouldn’t even fit in my house. We would have to meet in a large meeting hall, or perhaps outside. The point is, I’m so grateful that each and every one of you are here. I would write even if no one read any of my articles, and writing for an audience who I know actually wants to read about what I want to write about — motherhood, being postpartum, and step parenting — is such a joy.
Week #12 Favorites
- Noah Kahan’s new album!!! Wow. Emotionally, I am wrecked. I’ve been in my feels the past few weeks about navigating my twenties and outgrowing friendships and drifting apart from people I thought would be in my life forever, and this album came at just the right time. If you need a good cry, just listen to “All Them Horses,” “23,” or “Willing and Able.” Ouch! But if you just want to groove, I also love “American Cars,” and “Haircut.” I’m sure I will have this album on repeat well into the summer, and music tends to inspire my writing, so stay tuned for some gut-wrenching articles later this season.
- Baby wearing. This has truly made my life so much easier. Although I can’t wear both of them at the same time (yet), if one baby is happy and one is fussy, I’ll leave the happy one be and wear the fussy one, and then I’m able to still do dishes, fold laundry, or walk the dog. Plus it’s a great way for me to still get snuggles even if I’m on the go!
- The Queen’s Gambit. My husband and I don’t get much alone time now that the twins are born (understandably) and when we do, we’re usually pretty spent. Watching the same TV show at the end of the night has been my favorite way to spend time together lately, so my husband recommended that we try this show. It’s sogood! I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised. The only downside is that it’s so short — only seven episodes!
Week #12 Highlights
- The twins turned two months old! Luckily, this month felt like it passed by a little slower than the first, so I had more time to soak it in. Both twins are more awake and alert now, and they’re smiling more every day! I love their coos and grins, and it’s so fun to watch them grow.
- My grandparents, sister, brother, and my future sister-in-law all visited from out of town. My brother and his fiancé had their engagement party on Friday, and the twins had their baby blessing in church today, so everyone flew to North Carolina to celebrate together. My grandparents live in Southern California and my siblings are currently in Utah, so we all only see each other a few times a year. That just made this all the more special!
- I survived two months of exclusively pumping. It might seem silly to some, but I plan to celebrate this milestone every month. Exclusively pumping is hard, not to mention extremely isolating. I am constantly either pumping, thinking about pumping, or stressing about pumping. My pumping schedule runs my life. It can feel overwhelming and stressful at time, but I’m so happy that I’m able to provide more than enough milk for both of my girls. Women’s bodies are amazing! This month I produce over 15 gallons of milk, putting my to-date total right around 26 gallons. Insane!
That’s all for this week — short and sweet! Until next time ❤
Step by Step Parenting 