He’s growing impossibly fast. His loves at the moment are anything scooter/balance bike related or musical instruments. My loves at the moment are watching him explore, and find his way.
The other day I was having lunch with True. Just the two of us. I was having one of those mama moments where on the inside I was feeling a little bit maxed, a little bit pulled in a million directions, but on the outside I was doing my mama thing, engaging my sweet little guy, playing games, singing, chatting, listening. We sat there together like that for about an hour. As I scooped him up and began to gather our things, I ran into a construction boot wearing, thirty-something, shaved head, sporty looking dude at the bussing station. He had been sitting nearby eating his lunch, too. As we were clearing off our plates, he looked over and said, “You’re a good mom.” Surprised, I looked over and sheepishly replied, “Awe, thanks for that.” He went on, “No, really. I can tell that you’re a really good mom and I think that little boy is lucky to have you.” Enter stinging eyeballs, throat clenching, gobs of gratitude. I almost cried.
It’s not everyday that someone, let alone a stranger compliments us on our parenting. It was one of my most beautiful moments and I will remember it always. I beamed as I left, True on my hip, mama heart beating proudly.
It’s been quite wintery around here in Portland. Feels like it’s a time of regrouping, getting organized for the new year and getting ready for our new routine now that John will be a stay at home papa? Did I tell you we’ve decided to make this move? We are all thrilled beyond, beyond, beyond and it falls into the realms of radical support for me, for him, for our sweet little family. We are creating a life that suites us beautifully. Feeling grateful…
I was once complemented by a stranger on my parenting, at a moment when I was feeling mighty low about my parenting. I too will never, ever, forget it. Best gift ever.
Hi,
I have a quick question about your blog, do you think you could e-mail me?
Heather
Hi Kelly, I was lucky enough to be able to stay home with my youngest son and we made so many great memories – apple picking in the fall, hikes in the spring, day trips to the beach in the summer….things I couldn't do with my daughters because I was working. John will appreciate the time he can spend with him and True will always treasure the memories!
hi kelli! true is so darn cute! i am so glad one of you willl stay at home with him, all mine are grown up now and it really goes so fast, rt now is the best! i took early retirement so i can stay home with my little grndkids, my dtr is a school teacher and i know for sure now that mine are big how important they be with family, life is way to short and special to do it any other way! yeah for daddy! the rest of our family is in portland so we go 1-2x yrly and it is a way cool town! aloha, angi in hana
My husband has been a SAH dad to our 2-year old daughter since she was born. I am so incredibly grateful for his willingness to do that. They have an amazing bond. His commitment to her and to me is a blessing beyond measure. I wish your family the very best in your transition.
also, i vote YES to doing something fun with your hair <3
yay! so happy for your little nest!
so excited for You and John and True! So fabulous that John is going to be a stay at home papa!!!
Oh, my. That is so sweet. So sweet that big man recognized your shining light. It is pretty bright. Xo.
Mmmm…after reading today's post I think I'll send a note to my sister and let her know what a good mama I think she is! Blessings 🙂
Love the new dads. It takes a lot to be a stay at home mom or dad. When the dad steps up I say "there goes a real man " your great parents
I love the life that you are creating for your family Kelly. Love the idea of a stay-at-home daddy. All the best to you and your family. xo
You deserve it :). You're a lovable mommy!. So happy that some stranger could see that and believes :). I bet that guy is some earth angel wanting you to know that you're doing a great job with True :). Hugs.
A compliment indeed!
Love that guy's comment! Love the honesty and spontaneity of it! Parenting can so easily fill us with self-doubt and "not-good-enough-ness". I'll keep your post in mind for the next time mama-shame hits me. True is a lucky boy indeed, and congrats to the brave papa too! Wishing you many family blessings this year!