“Two Under Two” often rings in my head in an almost menacing tone, and truly, I don’t know who I need to be mad at. On one hand, I’m incredibly excited, but having just gone through a year of pregnancy and another year grooming my one-year-old, I’m left wondering at times—WTF were YOU thinking?!
Preparing for Two Under Two
Due in April, I’ve learned that pregnancy symptoms the second time around are often worse. My doctor, after about 23 weeks, started to be very honest with me per my request, and I’m feeling it—everything is tougher. Physically, I’m just more exhausted.I’ve started off the year catering and working a job I love, so we’re contributing to that exhaustion in a healthy way—but still, we’re exhausted.
Baby Jaxon
Jaxon is one now, and he’s a little whirlwind. His mouth is constantly jibber-jabbering, his hands are always grabbing, and his feet keep him on the move. Oh, and he’s mimicking. I had no idea I’d be literally running after him. Pregnant me, running!What I’ve enjoyed most is that he’s eating, and we get to spend meal times together. But what I’m not enjoying is the aftermath—the big poops that milk and eating create. He can light up a conference room! We’re definitely potty training. Despite these challenges, seeing him learn, grow, and establish a steady routine has been rewarding.
Preparing for Baby #2
I have faith I can do it all again, but I’m nervous about going through it all, all over again with baby #2. On one hand, I’m celebrating our triumphs after a year with Jaxon, and on the other, I’m preparing for another set of firsts and no matter how many kids you have that part is scary.This time, we know what we’re having, but to keep some mystery, we’ve referred to baby #2 neutrally. Mario and I are super excited. I’ve also posted less about this pregnancy, learning that some experiences are better kept private. We now know what we truly need and aren’t falling into the traps of unnecessary baby items and deals. We’ve prepared differently this time around.
Anticipating Irish Twins
I’m anticipating my babies growing up together. My brother and I are Irish twins, and Mario and his late sister were too. In both families, we represent strong parts of who our parents were and are. We’re excited to see Jaxon and baby #2 experience this unique bond and see our personalities shine through them.Parents get to help foster a healthy, close relationship between siblings. As the oldest of four, my siblings were my very first friends, and we can go moment for moment with memories we’ve experienced together. I can’t wait to see what kind of relationship Jaxon and baby #2 will have.
Lessons Learned and Embracing Change
Through this journey, I’ve learned something important: you can’t force people to do anything, no matter the circumstance. This second pregnancy has brought new people into my life and shifted my expectations. My mantra this year is “life be lifeing,” which means embracing unexpected things as just a part of life. Everyone is going through something, and sometimes their absence or lack of presence has nothing to do with anyone else—it’s personal. This pregnancy has made me more aware of offering help with intention and understanding what true relationships look like, it has also made me more transparent.Finding Balance and Joy
My babies deserve a healthy, healed version of me. Pregnancy and parenting can be chaotic and sometimes triggering, but alongside being present as a parent, I’m finding time to heal myself. I want my kids to see joy in marriage and family through me, no matter what. I encourage parents building their families to stick through it all and embrace every moment of the journey.