R is celebrating 8 months old today. I can’t believe how fast this time has gone for us. This time has been so different from C. In many ways, it’s been harder, but I have been lucky to have a great and helpful hubby and the strength to finally ask for help when I need it. This is something that I did not do with C – I didn’t want people to think I was failing or not doing a good enough job. I am so glad to have come to this realization, with the help of some good friends and family, and to know that there are people out there that will come and help me. It’s taken me a long time to realize this and to also come to terms that this is OK. Not that it makes me weak, less of a mom, or a failure. Such an eye opener for me and that makes this parenting thing so much better.

But enough about me and my realizations – let’s talk R this month. R is very ticklish and loves to be tickled on his belly and thighs. He growls like a puppy. He loves his pacifier and will hold it, look for it, steal it from you, and sometimes even suck on it. It seems like he is teething, but none have popped through yet. He smiles easy and has bright blue eyes. He makes my heart feel full to brimming. He reminds me to slow down and enjoy the moment, not just with him, but his big brother as well.

Our new tradition in the mornings has changed a bit as C has moved to preschool. Now when I am dropping R off, as I am taking him out of the car, I say “Bye Big Brother (for R)” and C answers, “Bye, Little Brother.” and the world, my world knows it’s going to be a great day and that I just might be doing something right with these two boys…