For over a decade, I was either pregnant or nursing, constantly juggling the demands of little ones. I can hardly believe how quickly my children have grown! I was so immersed in wiping noses, reading bedtime stories, and cutting crusts off sandwiches that I didn’t even notice the transition. One moment I was knee-deep in diapers, and the next, I was enjoying late-night Netflix sessions with my teens. Sure, I miss the tiny toes and sticky kisses, but I also love the new stage of life where I can borrow my daughter’s shoes. However, there are definitely some habits I need to drop now that my kids are older:
- Finishing Their Leftovers
Back when my meals consisted of whatever scraps I could snatch from my kids’ plates, it was a necessity. Now, it’s just kind of gross. I can eat my own meals without scavenging the remnants of their pasta or pizza. - Wearing Old Pajamas
When I was nursing through the night and dealing with breakfast messes, it made sense to lounge in my old yoga pants and a faded T-shirt. But now that those days are over, I think it’s time to upgrade my sleepwear to something a bit nicer—my husband would appreciate it too! - Leaving Space in the Bed
For years, my husband and I would keep part of our bed open for our little ones who would inevitably join us at night. Now that we finally have the bed to ourselves, we still sleep shoulder to shoulder. Maybe that’s a tradition worth keeping! - Listening to Kid’s Music in the Car
I used to endure the same children’s songs on repeat, but thankfully, those days are behind me. Now, I can switch to NPR without worrying about a meltdown in the backseat—at least they better not complain if they want another mall trip! - Hiding Vegetables in Their Food
I spent years sneaking veggies into everything from pasta sauce to brownies. But guess what? They know the truth now! No more hiding spinach in their meals—it’s time for honesty at the dinner table. - Giving Up When They Don’t Help
I often find myself exasperated when my kids can’t seem to load the dishwasher properly or make their beds. I have to remind myself they’re capable of doing these tasks. I should step back, let them try, and resist the urge to do it all myself.
Despite these adjustments, one thing I can’t seem to shake is my awe for my kids. I used to marvel at their tiny sleeping forms and feel overwhelmed with love, and guess what? I still do! They may not be babies anymore, but they continue to captivate me in new ways. Their laughter, their growth—everything about them is still magical. While I might need to let go of some of my old habits, my admiration for them? That’s here to stay.
In summary, transitioning from the baby stage to having older kids comes with its own set of changes. While I need to drop some old habits like eating off their plates and wearing old pajamas, my love and fascination with my children remain as strong as ever.