Member Blogs

On Friday, my husband and I saw the ultrasound images of our newest addition:  the clear outline of Baby sucking its thumb while sleeping.  And then flipping and kicking when awakened by Doctor's probe.

I giggled when I saw this thumbsucking because it reminded me of my 20-month-old son, whose own thumb is his constant companion.  It occurred to me then that our family is growing and soon there would be two little ones to nuture and guide.  This thought both thrilled and terrified me.

"Let's put them on layaway!"  my husband joked when I shared my  feelings with him later that night.

"Aren't you spooked?"  I asked.

"Being spooked is like chewing bubble gum to prepare for a geomtry test ..." he mused and then added, "Actually, they did a study and chewing bubble gum helps people concentrate so that they can prepare for the test!"

"That solves everything!"  I hoped Will would sense the sarcasm in my voice as I left the room.

I walked up the steps to our home's second floor and peaked in on my sleeping son.  He was sprawled out in his crib with Alligator and Clifford snuggled next to him.  I tried to imagine two little munchkins, both reaching out to be held; both asking for "more" food; both stomping their feet in anger;  both in timeout.  I wonderedif f I was up to the task.  Can I do this?

I did not have an answer that night.  In fact, I went to sleep a bit unsettled about the new reality I will enter in a couple of months.

But, I feel more confident today.  Nothing dramatic happened in the intervening day.  My little guy continues in his terrible pre-twos and -- believe it or not -- even made it to timeout in a corner at the restaurant where we had Mother's Day Brunch.  I think the moment it all clicked is at that restaurant today, post-timeout, when my son hugged me despite the reprimand.  And, acted like a little gentleman the rest of the meal.  And, fell asleep contentedly on the way home. 

We must be doing something right, I thought as I listened to my son's snoring.  Just maybe we can do it right for two.