Treasure these moments, Mamaāboth the monumental and the mundane! I know this does not seem to be the most profound statement, but it is a powerful one. For example, although I don’t carry (“babywear”) my kiddos often these days, the times I do are truthfully moments of memory-making and bondingāeven if it only lasts ten minutes due to them weighing more and my aging body!
Here’s a quick story! Last week during my Babywearing 101 workshop, my children observed me teaching parents how to “baby wear,” how to use different carriers, and about the history and tradition of it all. It warmed my heart so much when my son Koryāwho’s nine and is why I started my babywearing journeyālater asked me to teach HIM how to do it. Naturally, he wanted to use his favorite teddy. “Mommy, can you show me how to baby wear my teddy bear? I really want to learn today.” š„°
How could I say no to such a heart-melting request? So, I stopped whatever I was doing, grabbed a ring sling, and began assisting Kory in bearwearing his teddy close enough to kissāright next to his heart. When we were done, he proudly walked around the house for an hour with a huge smile on his face as he pretended to take his bear all over town. You can guess what happened next! Yes, his little sisters ran over to me, asking for their own consultation with their dolls. Of course, my schedule was wide open.
I’m so glad to pass the babywearing tradition (and many others) down to my children. Our children are always watching and learning, always studying our every step. I look forward to the full circle day when I see them putting it all into practice with their own families. Be still my heart!
Until that unforgettable day, I will cherish all of these moments, big and small, because “they [really do] grow so fast”!!
