Do you remember anticipating motherhood?

Can you recall the expectations, hopes, and dreams?

Reality sets in when that precious bundle is finally placed in our arms, and it is often so very different from our expectations. In fact, it may even be harder in many ways. But, as my fellow moms and I have discovered, reality is also much more delightful than we ever dreamed!

My Expectations

I didn’t expect to have children, as my A type personality saw them as a bother. An unexpected pregnancy birthed a love I didn’t know existed. My expectations seem to always ride the road of perfectionism, but learning to relax and enjoy a movie with dirty dishes in the sink has helped my relationships with these five kiddos. My greatest surprise in parenting has been the conversations that heal a heart, guide a future, or produce new ideas and excitement. The great responsibility of parenting is matched by the joy of seeing them grow into who God has made them to be.

Here are some of the expectations the moms on my staff had!

I was most surprised by how difficult being a mom can be. Because I had a background in child care and education, and because my mom made parenting appear almost effortless, I expected parenting my own children to be a breeze. While parenting has, at times, been very challenging, I am excited to see where this journey is leading. With my children now in their teen years, I can see our relationship changing and developing, and I hope to one day enjoy the type of friendship relationship with my children that I have with my mom.

I thought if I did enough research beforehand, I’d know exactly what to expect. Boy, was I in for a shock! It was like my kids had never even read any of the parenting books that I’d studied so carefully! On top of that, each kid was completely different from the others. I don’t recall where all of those books ended up, but as much as I prefer most things to go “by the book,” some of my favorite moments with the kiddos have also been the most unplanned and unexpected ones. One of the things I love most about being a mom is how each of my kids is a unique individual. Being their mom is teaching me to be flexible!

I expected to have an orderly house, time to bake cookies, and money to enjoy extracurricular activities with my children. But four boys, a slower metabolism, and motorcycle accidents have altered those expectations. What I enjoy most is learning alongside my boys, seeing them take on responsibility, and giving them more privileges. And the perks of being a boy mom are awesome – I don’t have to take out the trash or kill spiders any more!

As the oldest of five children, I helped care for my youngest siblings. I’ve always been practical, and I honestly expected raising my own children to fit with caring for siblings – meet their practical needs, and all would be well. But the moment I met my firstborn, the all-consuming nature of motherhood hit me. It’s been overwhelming at times, but it has also been my greatest joy. I’m all-in with my three sweethearts, far beyond the practical details. And I love it!