Then you hear things like "don't sweat the small stuff. It's the big picture that matters most." I can totally get behind this sentiment too. Bad things happen during the day so you should try not to focus on them. Just because Mark took off his diaper and pooped in the crib and smeared it everywhere doesn't mean that the whole day is ruined.
Now here is my problem with this advice-which one is it? Do all the small moments in life matter the most or am I not supposed to sweat the small stuff since it's the big picture that matters most? You can't have it both ways, you have to choose.
Personally, I choose to look at the big picture in life. I'll never enjoy all the small moments in parenting since some days just suck. But I know one day everyone is going to wipe their own butt (can I get an Amen?) and leave the house and I'll miss having them at home with me.
So back off moms with older kids, we are not going to miss every moment in parenting, just the good ones. And if you're honest with yourself, it's only the good moments that you really miss.

Ha! No way will we miss every moment! I don't miss the diapers and the middle of the night feedings one bit!
ReplyDeleteIt's crap anyways, I repress most of the moments with my kids as soon as they happen anyways. I remember something having to do with poo on the walls in the carpet and in their hair...but it seems so much like a dream I once had.
ReplyDeleteOh, I've heard that advice. Of course I'll miss my boys as the itty-bitties that they are right now...but not getting any sleep? Working nights so I can be with them during the day? Yeah, won't miss that.
ReplyDeleteVisiting from Shell's linkup. Nice to meet you.
I think you hit the nail on the head. There are many important moments in parenthood that just go by far too quickly. Enjoy those moments because you will find yourself missing them if you dwell on the yucky stuff!
ReplyDeleteYou're absolutely right...we won't miss EVERY moment. I sure don't miss getting up to nurse every two hours. Or the two-year-old temper tantrums. So yes, look at the big picture...because the days go slow but the years fly by. (That's the one I usually look at -- especially if I'm having a bad day with the kids, the kind of day that I WON'T miss!)
ReplyDeleteI also choose to look at the big picture.
ReplyDeleteI definately won't miss every moment.
I know I'll miss the good moments of each age/stage, but I'm also looking forward to what is ahead!
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