When I had my first baby, I thought I had learned everything there was to know about motherhood. I’m taking about the sleepless nights, the feeds, the routines, the constant worrying. But then came Jack, my second child, my youngest son – and he’s shown me that there’s always more to learn.
At 16 weeks old, he’s already taught me more than I ever expected. Not just about babies and how there’s never one the same as the other, but about myself.
Letting go of perfection
With my first, I felt like everything had to be just right – the perfect schedule, tracking feeds, the ideal routine. With Jack, I’ve learned that listening to his needs rather than other people, even some healthcare professionals, is better for both of us. I’m softer with myself this time. I try not to rush things so much and I’m kinda sad that time seems to be going even faster this time round.
Slowing down
Jack has shown me the beauty in slowing down. Those quiet feeds in the middle of the day when it’s just us two, when the house is asleep and he’s lay beside me in his Moses basket – it’s like time pauses. I missed those moments the first time, always racing to get to the next thing. Now, I linger a bit more.
Watching two brothers bond
Watching Jack and Freddy together has been one of the best moments of this stage. The gentle touches, Freddy rocking Jack to sleep, the way Jack lights up when he hears Freddy’s voice it’s a kind of magic I didn’t expect. Freddy has surprised us quite a bit, he’s taken to the change of a new family member well and he loves to help with nappy changes, bottles etc.
My second born has taught me that I can do this again – that I am doing it. And maybe even doing it better, even if it’s not always easy. Every little hand (finger) hold fills my heart every day.
Motherhood has a way of testing your confidence and self-esteem, but this time around, I’d like to believe those two have been a little kinder to me.
The Mama Perspective | Mum Blog 
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