a few good lessons from big bro

After a fun time swimming, wearing her new outfit from Adele.

So, I talked to my big brother today. He told me that sometimes they (he and his wife) read my blog and worry that I'm losing it. So, just to reassure you all, I'm not losing it. We have had some rough periods, but we really are doing well and are happy.

Here's what I learned from my phone conversation with my bro-
1.
I NEED to ask for help more. I must admit, I have such a hard time with this. I feel like my job is to stay home and care for Coranelle, so I have a hard time admitting that I cannot do it on my own at times. But, I have so many people who are willing and ready to help out. I am really so lucky to have so many great people around us. I apologize to the MANY of you who have offered to watch Coranelle or help out and I haven't taken you up on it. I'm am going to really work on this.

2.
I am too much of a control freak. Really, I am. My whole life, I have had a plan. Really, every day I have a plan and a schedule and expectations. For most of my life, things have gone as planned and I have felt relatively, in control. But, Coranelle- well, I cannot control her. Every day, there's something new and unexpected. Things often don't go as planned. And, as Stefan pointed out, it is really good for me. It is my life lesson in learning how to be more flexible, and have less plans and expectations. It is teaching me to enjoy the good moments and treasure the fun times. I need to let it teach me how to lean on other people more and let go. I need to stop leaving my daughter with people and giving detailed instructions about which color spoon she likes to eat with, which socks she wears to bed, what snack she eats after a nap, etc. etc. I am going to work on allowing days to go by without such a schedule and a plan. I am writing all of this down to help me be accountable- but it is hard to change.

Thanks to my mom and brother for helping me realize these things. Thanks to all of you who are always there for us and willing to help.

Now, on a much lighter note... we got Sheldon's new crib delivered today- a gift from Heido and Poppa Bruce. Once it is assembled, I will take and post pictures of his room- which is looking really, really cute!

Second, the picture above is of me at 30 weeks. 10 weeks until we meet the little guy!

Lastly, Coranelle did better at the rec center childcare yesterday. She still wanted to be up for about half the time, but she did better. We are working on ways to let her "see" what I am doing while I am cooking, without me having to hold her. Keep her in her prayers as she prepares for her little brother's arrival. Keep me in your prayers- that I can stay strong when I make her terribly sad by refusing to hold her.