baby steps

i met a young mom the other day who had three small children very close in age. she asked me, "when does it get easier?"

when DOES it get easier? sometimes i ask myself the same question. but truthfully, it has gotten easier - just sometimes in such small increments that it's hard to notice.

it gets easier when you walk down the stairs and don't have to carry anyone (or even hold hands)!

it gets easier when the older two potty independently, and the youngest brings you a diaper when she's ready for a change.

it gets easier when your children fall asleep by themselves, without rocking or nursing or soothing.

when they pick out their own books at the library.

when you say, "get your shoes on," and two of the three can perform that task independently. (this is HUGE, and still brings me joy every time it happens.)

when you don't need boosters at the table, and everyone can feed themselves.

when you can carry a fairly normal sized purse instead of an enormous diaper bag.

when you no longer feel panic when you leave them with a sitter, because they can all (mostly) talk and express their needs.

when does it get easier?

NOW.