We’re finally speaking the same language…

It started out as grunts, and then turned into unexplainable words and now Drew is not only saying clear vocabulary words but also attempting sentences. We are able to ask him about his day and he can verbalize high points. His verbal growth in twenty-one months is indescribable! There are definitely times that we have communication barriers where we don’t understand each other but each day he seems to be progressing. It’s just so interesting how our relationship has evolved. At first I didn’t understand any of his needs and wants, which originated from nonstop cries. Now he can, almost eloquently, describe those same needs and wants in words. As June approaches, I’m more and more fearful of what it will be like bringing a “stranger” into our established lives. For so long I felt like I couldn’t handle my life – at first taking care of Drew in our house, then learning to be able to leave the house, going back to work part-time and eventually embracing life as a full-time working mom. I now, not only understand my child more, but also understand my life more. Why would I complicate things by adding another child into our lives when we just started to get into a rhythm? Then again, isn’t this the best time since we are used to this ever-changing lifestyle? Wouldn’t it be harder to wait several years when we have our schedule and life down to a science? In some ways it feels like we will be going backwards. Drew is sleeping through the nights, and now the baby will wake us up all over again. Drew is able to tell us what he wants, and now the baby will cry when she needs something. Drew is able to participate in activities, and now the baby will not be mobile and will prevent us from playing with Drew. In some ways I thought having a second child would be easier, we have already been through this once. In other ways, however, it’s more complicated and unknown than I ever would have imagined. I worry about how it will affect Drew, what I will have to offer a new baby and how it will challenge my relationship with Adam. I’m going to take a blind leap of faith. As challenging, confusing and exhausting as it was bringing Drew into this world, it was more rewarding and thrilling. As June comes closer, I’m going to embrace these days before our family changes from 3 to 4 but I’m going to happily take a step towards the unknown life of having two children. As Drew’s vocabulary and communication skills grow, so will I. I never thought I would be able to multi-task, juggle or balance my life with only one child and I have done it. Although things aren’t perfect, I’m doing it. I’m going to continue doing it with two also.