Parenting with Multiple Kids
I’ve heard of this concept like a tall tale. I’ve been a Mommy for 23 1/2 years now and parenting with multiple kids in the house has been an experience. I haven’t had “only” three kids in over 16 years and I admit I have no clue how to cook for just 5 people. I lost count of how many years I had 3 kids in diapers and although breastfeeding is becoming a distant memory, I did it for 11 years. There was a period of time I felt like I was always pregnant and when people ask me how I did it back then I have no idea how to respond. It was just my life and I tackled it like I do everything else — hopefully with passion and love and a little bit of crazy. I have no negative memories, no regret and I don’t recall that time as being particularly difficult, but I’m glad it’s over. I have no baby fever, no missing of little ones pitter-pattering around, no puppy syndrome. I loved it, I embraced and enjoyed it — stress and all — and I’m glad it’s in the past.
The kids grow up so fast it’s unbelievable. Now all those diapers are replaced with Vans in big feet, makeup, tampons, deepening voices, borrowing my clothes, driving lessons, jobs, and hope of being taller than I am (I’m about 5'9"), Three kids are out of the house now, with 9 more turning 18 in the next 6 years. 9 teenagers in the house. Graduations every year for the next 6 years.
It’s crazy and fun and ridiculous and I love and hate it all at the same time. I hate how fast it’s gone, that they’re growing up and almost gone and I love the same things. I was a young Mom and planned to be young-ish when they were all adults on their own. People comment often about how I’ll have empty nest syndrome, how sad I’ll be, how awful and alone I’ll feel in 6 years when there’s only one left at home. Doubtful. I’ve loved every second. I am proud of the young men and women my kids are becoming. I really tried hard not to wish the time away, to cherish and savor every moment. I will never cease to be their Mommy as much as that relationship changes over the years. I love becoming a little less of a Mom and a little more a friend and knowing I am only there as a safety net. I welcome the time when they visit with their families and Thanksgiving becomes something entirely different.
What will I do with myself when my kids are gone? Anything I want which I haven’t done in over 23 years. I will learn to cook for 2–3, I will travel, I will run anytime I want, I won’t feel guilty for buying things for myself or getting the tattoo I’ve wanted for years. Date night can be every night, I can downsize A LOT, we’ll park our vehicles in the garage and it will be OK that I don’t have a car that seats at least 8. I’ll spend time differently with the man I love. But we aren’t there yet. I still have time to hang on to the 9 getting ready to branch out on their own. I’ll savor it, but when it’s time, don’t think for a second that I won’t enjoy myself.
Originally published at https://www.momof18.com.
Jenn is Mom of 18, Transformational Coach for Christian women, host of At A Crossroads with The Naked Podcaster, Author, Runner, Minimalist, & Healthy Lifestyle Advocate
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