Okay, so a few disclaimers about this post. First, it will not be as exciting as any Jack Bauer adventure. Second, it will be limited on spiritual insights. Finally, these are probably nothing new to most of you, but will bring fond memories of days gone by or give you windows to your future. Instead, here are some rapid fire things I’ve already seen, done and experienced having Titus and Riley at home:
GREATER RESPECT FOR ABRAHAM: Tending to my newly circumcised son has given me a much greater respect for the sacrifice Abraham made by enduring this procedure (without anesthetic or sharp instruments) at an older age. See Genesis 17.
“I’VE SEEN WORSE”: Strange phenomenon that parents do- comparing one diaper to the previous. I kinda feel like a battlefield surgeon comparing one wound to another.
TOTALLY DEPRAVED: Yes, a statement of our sinful nature, but in this context- we’re totally depraved of sleep.
BEST TIME TO START LAUNDRY: When the washer stops. Seriously, the dirty linens these guys produce doesn’t end!
NEW RESPECT FOR NASCAR PIT CREWS: We’re not “racin’” fans, but already we’re timing our feed times and talking technique… how can we shorten the time? Which one should we start with? Maybe we need to video tape them and get one of those on-screen markers to analyze it.
GAUGING THE RIGHT TEMPERATURE IN THE HOUSE: Just below my boiling point seems to be right for their ideal temperatures. I’m planning to break out my summer clothes later today.
FINDING HAPPINESS IN A BOTTLE: This is never a good plan for adults. We’re trading off between nursing and bottles, alternating who gets which at each feed. There is a certain level of satisfaction in seeing the bottom of an empty bottle. Again, this applies only to the baby bottles.
A LIFE’S RIDDLE UNDERSTOOD: Why do athletes always say, “Hi Mom!”? I’m getting a clear picture now. My wife is amazing and I’m so grateful for the sacrifice she’s making to nurse our twins. Call your mother today. Seriously. She’s done a lot for you.
Anyone have first day at home stories?
Ryan Boyer is a husband, a father of twins and a pastor. He and his family live in Idaho.
Hi Ryan & Gina,
Yes, I remember these things…the more amazing thing is that I remember what I put my parents through as a teenager and now I cannot believe that a child would ever do those things to a parent that has been through sooo much! LOL It has only begun…remember to take deep breaths and pray for patience because your are going to need much, much more.
Ryan, thanks for the sweet words of praise, but know this…I could never in a million years take on nursing two babies without all of your hands-on-help, support and encouragement! The saying goes that, “behind every great man is a great woman” in this case the opposite is true. You bring out the best in me! I love you!
Hi Gina and Ryan-
I am so thrilled for you guys that the babies are home. Now that you’re home, the real fun begins! Treasure these moments, as hard as they seem, they’ll be walking and talking and giving you attitude before you know it. My one suggestion to both of you, for everyone’s sanity, is to leave the house everyday. Even if its just a short walk for some fresh air. I can’t stress enough, you need a break everyday. Also, I think a hot bath for Gina on a daily basis might be a pretty good idea too:) Have fun with your children, I can’t wait to see more pictures.
Not long after bringing Grace home (4 weeks) she began screaming non stop. She screamed for about 60 out of every 72 hours. Julie and I just traded her off and snarled at each other, it was brutal! We finally discovered that she had acid re-flux, she was a new baby. I wish we would have taken more video of things like this rather than the good stuff. Though, in times like these the last thing I could think of was the video camera. However, you should remember to take video when you are at your whits end, you will appreciate it later!