We survived!

So today was my first day riding solo with both boys (it still sounds funny to use plurals)! Things were awesome and we had a great day.

Its all about being organized! I had quite the agenda planned, heading to buy a much needed double stroller then heading over to my friend Julie's for a playdate. After nursing Weston at 7:30, I hopped in the shower while he dozed back off and I had the chance to dress, eat, pack J a lunch & load the car before he woke up again. I got Weston settled in his carrier before waking Jackson up (at 9:15 I might add), dressing then feeding him. We were out the door by 9:45 and not the least bit rushed.
I bought the stroller then spent the morning catching up with Julie while we watched Jackson & Slade run around the yard playing in the water & making mudpies in the inflatable kiddie pool. Sweet Weston dozed in his carrier, waking for the occasional snack. After lunch and a much needed bath for the big boys, we headed back home and I had an entire hour & a half of me-time while both babies were napping. Shortly after nap time commenced, Ben got home.

I am by no means an expert, and I honestly think the good Lord just blessed me with a peaceful day, but I do think a few things were key.

1. Preparation. Sunday night, I stocked both diaper bags, packed our swim bag with fresh towels and a change of clothes and packed J's lunch. Before the babies even got up Monday morning, I loaded all 4 bags (yes, four) in my car so all I had left to put in the car were the kiddos.

2. Rise & Shine! In my pre-Weston days, J & I would both sleep in until 9 or 9:30 on a regular basis. Total bliss. However, juggling a nursing newborn and a hungry toddler while groggy does not sound like fun to me so I decided to join the ranks of 99% of moms and get my lazy butt out of bed. It was awesome to shower, eat breakfast and check my email in peace. It's just amazing how a calm start sets the tone for the entire day!

3. Strategic timing. I learned quickly that it's easiest to get one baby settled at a time, rather than managing two potential meltdowns. I let Weston's nursing schedule dictate our timing, but once he got good & settled, I focused on Jackson. Each boy got undivided attention and I was able to quickly move through our morning must-do's such as teeth brushing, dressing & hair combing without having to do it with only one arm or having to block out screaming in the background.

Tomorrow will be the true test...as Jackson has to be at preschool at 9am. Wish us luck!

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