Confessions of my 5th Year of Motherhood

FIVE!!!!! I've been mothering Vivian Louise for FIVE years! I'm in awe and full of gratitude for the blessing of these past 5 years. This 5th birthday had a big impact on me. 

To me 5 represents a big girl and one that will be off to kindergarten. 5 isn't a toddler anymore and she's a graduate of preschool. 5 is a girl that is capable of so much and shares so much all on her own. 5 is a whole hand, half a decade and a milestone door into a year of big milestones! 

These annual posts on my journey as a mother are my most favorite to write because of all the things I do, being wife and mother are my most important. They are purposeful roles God has bestowed upon me and I pray I steward them well.

Here are the last 4 years of confessionals ...

Confessions of my 1st Year

Confessions of my 2nd Year

Confessions of my 3rd Year

Confessions of my 4th Year

A lot has stayed the same year after year. I've always maintained a strict schedule, wake up at 5am every day for time alone to do ALL the things, exercise daily, drink big cups of piping hot black coffee twice a day, dress us alike as often as I can, rarely give her a bath, struggle to get her to eat a variety of foods, but most importantly I continue to put down the to do list to play and have fun! 

My Confessions of my 5th Year of Motherhood ...

I'm Back in the Office

My first day of work 2-2-2022

I chose to leave my corporate career after holding our darling tiny girl in my arms. I've had to practice having contentment throughout these years as a part of me has missed it greatly. After receiving a few opportunities that were not a fit I had a friend connect me with a medical practice that needed administrative contribution that was part time and was completely work from home. From my first phone call with my boss it has been a perfect fit! 

I feel so valuable contributing to the business and having the ability to still maintain my lifestyle and responsibilities to my family.  It has been a rewarding addition. Even Vivian has a little desk set up next to mine for when I have to work when she's home from school.

I'm a Cheerleader

Vivian is continuing to take tap & ballet lessons and we've added gymnastics (her favorite!) and swim lessons. Soon she'll start soccer. I'm officially toting her to and from and I don't mind it one little bit.  It actually gives me ample opportunity to work uninterrupted and run errands. I've even made some mamma Friends. 

It's so exciting to see her learn new things and accomplish new goals. I absolutely love cheering her on!

I've Established a Village

Good Godly friendships is something I've been praying for since being in this season of motherhood. I've craved fellowship, understanding and fun. There have been times of frustrations (I need not to mention the isolation of 2020) but in His timing He has purposefully and perfectly placed the loveliest ladies in my life to love and encourage me! It truly takes a village and I'm so grateful I've been gifted a great one!

I Lead

I have a long history of leadership in nonprofits including being president of one and I've been leading a Sunday School class for high school girls for years now. This year alongside my dearest gal pal we are leading a 'Mothers of Preschoolers' group. It is a part of an international group that I highly recommend to all mothers. We meet twice a month with an additional social night. We work hard each week to share encouragement, knowledge, fun and Jesus with these mothers. These mothers are a blessing and I pray that I can be one to them.

I'm Now a Mother of 3

We brought Trixie home on 9-17-2022

I passionately and sternly without hesitation have killed Ryan's life long dream of having a Labrador for 16 years (the length of our relationship). I really wanted to soften my heart to his wants as he supports every single one of mine. So we added puppy Trixie to our home. As sweet as she is it has been very challenging for me and a big lesson in selfless love. Bunny Ethel & Trixie were quick friends and both bring joy to Vivian and Ryan. Their joy brings me joy :)

Ethel turned 1 in June

I have a Mini Travel Companion

Most of my travel is with my gal pals, Ryan or as a family. After taking Vivian on a girls trip to the beach just us two in '21 I decided I wanted to do more. I took Vivian on a few trips which included her first boat ride, hotel stay and immeasurable fun! She is a fantastic travel companion. I have already booked more for this Summer. 

I Have Extended Hours

With the start of school this Fall Vivian decided that she wanted to skip her afternoon naps. This was horrific to me! She's been the BEST sleeper her entire life with 12 hour night sleeps and 2+ hour naps every single day of her life. It was a gradual decline and she still has independent quiet time. It was a big adjustment for me but one that's ended up being enjoyable. She has afternoon activities that are now easier to attend and she's a respectful sidekick while I work or tackle my to-do's.

I've Established Traditions

Vivian loves going out! Both Ryan and I started including her on one on one dates and as a family. I also have taken her on outings with my friends. It makes her feel fancy and special so we've incorporated dates with her each week. But our favorite weekly tradition is on Friday nights with a movie and pizza. She looks forward to it all week long. She often builds forts for us to snuggle in but most often we chose our big bed. I love the tradition and special time together.

I'm a Little More Hands Free

Vivian has become more and more independent and it's bittersweet for me. There's a lot of things she's capable of doing that I still hold on to and do for her. It makes me feel so needed. It's hard to let go of my baby but exciting to see her bravely become a big girl. 

I Sit Still (A Little)

I've been more intentional in sitting still in the Word, preferably outside enjoying the sun and bird songs. I'm a Type A, Enneagram 1, control freak that slowing down doesn't come easy to but I'm doing my best to dedicate time to stillness so that I can fill my heart with His will for me each day. 

Being Vivian Louise's mother is a privilege and honor that I thank God for each and every day. I pray that I look to Him for guidance, strength, patience and mercy as I raise her each and every year.

Dress Beautifully in Motherhood

XOXO Sarah Louise