The Hardest Part of Having Two

I would have to say that the hardest part of having two children is keeping small toys out of the little one's reach and trying to give them each equal and appropriate attention! Now that Levi is getting older, he has alot of toys with small intricate parts that are not safe for Mallory. It's hard keeping them out of her reach. Levi isn't old enough to know or to remember to keep them out of her reach and she is the biggest grabber I've ever seen!! She will reach as far as her little arms will stretch just to get something. And I'm always amazed at the patience and tenacity that babies have in getting what they want!!

As for trying to spend time with each of them, it's very difficult. I find it difficult to balance an equal split of myself between the two. Because it's not necessarily time that makes it equal. Levi requires more of my time in spurts and instantaneously. Mallory, however, is very easy going, and requires little of my time. Just the usual feeding, changing, and laying down for a nap. But that's where it gets me. I find myself so involved with Levi, that I look back at the time spent with Mallory and it's usually just doing the care-taking for her and none of the playtime and bonding time. And then if I am feeding Mallory and Levi "needs" something (usually help with a toy or a refill) then I feel horrible about not helping him immediately. That is probably my own fault for I am used to giving him what he needs somewhat immediately. He's become a little dramatic over the past few months and I'm wondering if it's my fault, if it's his personality, or if it's just a phase - you know, he is TWO!!

So, that's what I've been working on lately, trying to be in the moment when I am at home with my babies and trying to spend quality time with each of them. We have been off our normal schedule for a week or so and there is an hour or so that I get with Mallory while Levi is napping and I really like it! I may have to adjust our schedule so that that stays! :)