Dearest Sweet Boys,
I love you SO much. And I love how you love me. Really, it’s absolutely wonderful how you want to be near me, right there with me, doing exactly what I’m doing, all the time. The way you both want to be held constantly and snuggle with me on the couch just fills me with joy.
But.
Even though I know you won’t always want to be next to me, won’t always so freely give hugs and kisses, won’t always want to snuggle on the couch with me, and that one day I’ll miss these warm, precious moments of mother-son love-fests, Mommy is a tad…overwhelmed.
I would really like to eat a meal sitting upright at the table like a human, instead of holding a baby that keeps trying to grab the food off my plate while a toddler stands behind me in the chair with his arms wrapped around my neck, bouncing for all he’s worth.
I would really like to go to the bathroom without a baby pulling on my pants and a toddler trying to “help” me.
I would really like to take a shower without having to undress you both to join me, because the thought of hanging out in the bathroom where you can see me through the glass shower doors is far too offensive for your loving natures.
Also, you both have some very special food needs, and I would really like to be able to spend the time I do have in the kitchen unencumbered by a baby screaming on the floor to be picked up and a toddler trying to “help” by rushing a hot stove, dismantling my kitchen, and trying to climb on the counters to help himself to snacks.
I understand, sweethearts, really I do.
Mr. Happy, you are not feeling well. You’ve been reacting to some unknown substance for almost a week, and you just don’t feel very good at all. Plus, you’re teething (still) and are fighting off a little cold. When you feel that icky, Mommy hugs are the only thing that make you feel better. I get that.
Mr. Charm, you are not feeling well. Last week you had an upset tummy from something you ate that lasted three days and then you, too, started fighting off a little cold. Plus, your brother has demanded much of me lately, and while you love your brother, I know you’ve been feeling a little neglected of “Mommy time”. I get that.
But am I really the only person that can pour your almond milk into a glass for you? When your Daddy tries to do it for you, you scream at him “No, no, no! MAMA!!” and break into hysterics if he doesn’t come get me.
Same with getting dressed or undressed, or diaper changes, or showers, or even playing with trains. Your Daddy loves you, too, and he would be so very happy to take care of you.
And Mr. Happy? Being held by Mommy is not the only answer. Daddy loves you, too, and is quite happy to hold and comfort you.
I think Daddy’s feelings are starting to be a little…wounded…by the fact that no matter what he tries to do for you boys, you both scream bloody murder until I step in and do it for you myself.
I love the love. I LOVE it.
I love the way you want and need me.
I’ll miss it like crazy when you grow up and don’t want or need me this way any more.
But right now, in the thick of it?
Do you think you could “show some love” to Daddy on occasion, too? Mommy needs a wee little break.
If that’s too hard to handle right now, know that I’ll always forgo laundry, cleaning, and even personal care to hold and love on you. I love you, and will always, always be there for you regardless of what you need.
But you know, your Daddy needs some loving too. So be good boys, huh? Spread the wealth a bit?
Hugs, Kisses, and ALL my Heart,
Mommy
