Saturday, January 28, 2012

The Help


My mom, dad, and brother arrived before Charlotte's birth and were such a huge help to us.  I was so fearful of going into labor early and not having family here to help out.  Luckily we made it to our scheduled date though, and all went just as planned.  Jeff and dad were here for a few days after Charlotte's birth, but then had to get back to their respective jobs, homes, etc.  We were lucky enough to have my mom here for almost a full month, though!  It was such a HUGE help having her presence as we began to transition to a family of 4.  For some people, I'm sure that much time with their mother or mother-in-law might not be the most comfortable thing ever, but we're really blessed to have such an effortless relationship!  She definitely was able to have some great bonding time with MJ and Charlotte, did all the laundry for us, helped out with cleaning, did most all of the cooking, and of course held Charlotte just about any time needed in order for us to shower, rest, etc.  Oh, and best of all, her and dad (he was here for a bit after Charlee's birth and then came back to pick up mom at the end of her visit) let Mat and I sneak off for a quiet dinner on their last night here.  I'm sure it will be quite some time before we're able to do that again, so it was MUCH appreciated! 

She's been gone a couple weeks now, and Mat and I have adjusted to being a family of four on our own, but one does definitely miss that extra set of hands.  Mat was so lucky (not so sure if he'd agree) to be off for the whole month of January.  He's had to go into work a few afternoons each week to keep up with planning and other commitments, but for the most part he's been able to be around the house to help me out with the kids a ton!  He returns to work this week, and life will really begin to get back into a more normal routine and schedule.  I know it's going to be quite challenging, but I'm also looking forward to establishing a bit of a routine again.  Fingers crossed and prayers said that I don't end up in tears on day 1.  ;) 

Thanks, mom for giving up your own life for a full month in order to help our family!!  Maybe one day I'll be doing the same for my own little girl....



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3 comments:

Anonymous said...

So glad she was able to be there.....I have said many times I couldn't have done, and still agree, without our Mom's help! You will have challenges but you will overcome with grace and get everyone into a routine. -KW

Anonymous said...

You are so blessed to have such a wonderful family! I'm sure your mother loved every minute of it. xxo, Mindy

Sharis Jean said...

Oh, Keli, thank you for the kind words! But it is I who am so thankful that I was able to be with you ALL! What an incredible blessing and time of bonding with Charlotte and even MJ. I am amazed as I look back on all that you all have been through, and me too...and we arrived at this time able to welcome this healthy sweet baby girl into this world. I am reminded of times past with a grateful and sometimes aching heart, sweet memories. But then look forward to watching MJ and Charlotte grow and blossom...so very proud of my daughter and the woman and mother that you have become.

With love from,
Your incredibly proud Mom and Gigi!