Stilettos & Diapers

by Molly Wey

BlogHer· Motherhood

The Early Gift {and $100 Visa Giftcard Giveaway!}

January 2007

With just over one year of marriage under our belts, we left all our family, friends and life as we knew it and moved to California. We went all over the west coast that year, exploring everything from San Francisco and Napa to Yosemite and Tijuana. 

It was fantastic. We jumped in the car and went, whenever and wherever we wanted to. We worked out a lot. Made mojitos and laid by the pool in the euphoria that is humidity free weather. 

 By the spring, my nursing license had transferred and we were DINKS (dual income, no kids) with a 5 year plan. We wanted kids eventually, but we were loving the life we were living. 

 August 5, 2007

 I was 6 days late, but knew there shouldn’t be a chance of pregnancy. I bought a test, just in case, and decided I would use it the next morning. Drank 2 glasses of wine, with the slight fear that I may have to go 9 months without it and went to bed. The next morning, double pink lines had me in tears. I was shocked. Then I felt guilty. I always wanted to be a mom, but I wasn’t ready. We were so happy doing our thing and I was afraid to let it go. 

 When I came out of the bathroom, the hubs knew what the answer was. He had just been watching the news of the 6 miners that had been trapped in the Crandall Canyon Mine overnight. He hugged me tight and I’ll never forget the words he said. 

 “Those people who are in that mine, that’s a sad thing. This is a good one. We’re getting exactly what we wanted, the gift just came early.”

 So 9 months later, we were parents. Just like that, our world completely changed. There was a lot more staying at home. A lot more downtime. And many more smiles. 
But the newborn phase wasn’t so long and once we were confidant in our diaper changing skills, we ventured out. We found out that having a third person isn’t that hard and we went everywhere. Tailgating, camping and boating, grape crushing in Napa, hiking in Hawaii and Disney World. Why not? 
Life was better, harder and so much fuller all at the same time. We decided that it was good enough, though, to do it again. Baby #2 added even more to our lives. 


 We were happy in our lives before kids. But now, I can say there is tons of joy. You can’t help but look at those little faces and feel it. I feel it when I sit and cheer for my little boy playing sports. I cheer at every shot, every swing, and every run to the base. I feel it when I don’t care if I get a single present for Christmas, because all I need is to see their excitement. I feel it when school papers come home with little stars or when we have painted fingers from the latest art project we’re sending in. I can’t imagine my life without my boys. 

 Now, more than ever, I’m doing exactly what I want to be doing and what I know I’m supposed to be doing. 

 The unexpected has a way of turning into amazing sometimes. Take  Delivery Man. Watch David’s journey (Vince Vaughn) as an unexpected discovery unfolds to help him find his long lost children and his true self. I couldn’t do 533 kids, that’s for sure, but this hilarious and heartfelt movie sure did bring back memories for me. Bring it home on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital HD 3/25/2014 and have a date night with your honey! You can order your copy here. Check out their Facebook page to learn more about this heartwarming movie!  

 How have kids changed your life for the better? Tell me in the comments for a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card!


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Comments

  1. Nicole Casey says

    It took us a while to pull the trigger to try to have a child. We also enjoyed the DINK life. Jeff and I were married for almost 7 years and finally I thought we had the "perfect" time to try. So we did and a couple of months later, we found out I was pregnant. Then 6 days later, my husband found out he was getting laid off. I was so scared. The "plan" wasn't supposed to go this way. But when she arrived in March of 2011, I wondered why I waited so long to have her! It's been an amazing journey and I realize that there is never a perfectly planned time, it just happens when it was supposed to. Having her made me leave a job I had for 13 years to take a new one with more flexibility and very close to home. We still go out and explore and have a fun life, just sometimes we have to be home by 8. 🙂 I wouldn't change it for anything. Watching her grow each day is more satisfying than an exotic trip somewhere any day.

  2. Susan says

    We don't have children and probably won't be able to, so I can't comment about that, but I can comment on how amazingly God uses our husbands to say just what we need at just the right time. My husband always sees the good and the positive in life, which is a great balance for me the worrier. He is the reason that we know we can have a blessed life even if we can't have children because he is always pointing out all the other blessings God has given us. Sorry didn't mean to get off topic, but when you wrote what your hubby said it made me tear up and it reminded me of how my hubby is with me.

  3. Claire says

    Children came quickly and *a little too* easily for us. We found out we were expecting 7 months into marriage, and then we've been pregnant every year since. We are now pregnant with our 4th and are pretty sure she'll be our last. Children have brightened our lives in a way we never imagined they would. Sure, they've made a lot of things harder and I sure do miss that DINKS phase 😉 but our lives are filled with SO much joy from there. Hearing my kids laugh and play and tell me they love me is worth every second of work, hardship and sacrifice. We flew our babies to South Africa, traveled the U.S. and seen a thousand sunsets through young eyes again. The miracle of new life has taught us so much and while some days I feel like I'm counting the years until we'll be empty nesters, most days I'm caught up in the happiness and laughter that is life with my kids.

  4. Tatum says

    We were married in July of 2007 and pregnant by the end of November that year. I always knew I wanted to be a mama. We were shocked at how quickly I was able to get pregnant so it came as a bit of a surprise. Two years later and we decided to do it all again. And I was pregnant just as quickly as the first time around. Two kids, six and a half years later and life couldn't be better. Having little ones has changed our lives like we never could have prepared for. Yes, it's challenging, but worth it and then some! The adorable little things that come out of their mouths, the sweet snuggles when they are sick or tired, the excitement over the small things, the simple joys of life… I could go on! Having kids has changed my life for the better because I get the opportunity to live life through a child's eyes again. It is so refreshing to be reminded how to live life simply, joyfully and with no regrets!

    Now the question is, will we have a third? 🙂

  5. Lisa Brown says

    Having children has taught me patience, which was a big problem for me. You cannot be impatient with children at all and with my new found patience, it has mand other areas of my life better, especially relationships with others. I find the care of children rewarding and watching them grow and change is wonderful.

  7. kellyr78 says

    My kids get me to go outside and enjoy nature more than I used to, and also do a lot more arts and crafts. I learned to appreciate the little things in life a lot more.
    Kellywcu8888ATgmailDOTcom

  11. Dawn Monroe says

    My husband and I have six kids, raised eight kids but its been grandkids that have changed us. They are amazing! I dont know when or how but they have given us wisdom, patience and an excitement for life.

  15. Sarah says

    oh. having C has made me more patient, which i never thought possible. my parents would have bet money against that ANY DAY. i am just so in love. i am more of a believer. i am more hopeful. I'm also a serious stage 5 clinger now, too!

  16. Mami2jcn says

    Having children has made me appreciate the small moments. Before I had kids, I seemed to be in a rush all the time and anxious to move onto the next thing. Now I wish I could freeze time.

    mami2jcn at gmail dot com

  18. Ashley says

    My daughter gave me the gift of patience and just gives me a reason to get up everyday :).

    hewella1 at gmail dot com

  19. Rayray Cartucci says

    before my son Jack came into my world I was really struggling with depression,anxiety and just felt so empty. Jack has filled my life these past 5 years…being a mom has healed all my hurt. I never knew what being a mama was so powerful and so fulfilling but now I really know. My Jack is 5 and I have not had any depression since….he is my joy.

  20. msmissy02 says

    My kids have changed my life for the better because they help me to grow up as I need to be there to support them. And they love me no matter what. They make want to be a better person, and make them proud. msmissy02 at gmail dot com

  27. Lauren Eggers says

    I didnt really want children. I didnt like responsibility, and I was flighty… Moving on to whatever new thing struck me first. Having my first daughter taught me not to run from things, to stick around and be more responsible. She is the BEST thing that ever happened neyabenz(at)gmail(dot)com

  29. Lauren Eggers says

    My daughter has made me more patient and loving. She has taught me a deeper compassion and how to appreciate the small things neyabenz(at)gmail(dot)com

  30. Ashley says

    My kids have given me a purpose for my life. I never had an particular callings prior to having kids, but from the first moment I met my son, I knew being a mom was what I was meant to do.

    demureprincess7(at)gmail(dot)com

  31. clc408 says

    Having children has taught me how important personal relationships are. I am more responsible, patient and kind since becoming a parent.

  33. Natalie says

    My niece and nephew have taught me to appreciate the people in my life and recognize the importance of relationships. They also have taught me to make a conscious effort to be happy and pleasure the little things in life. They have taught me not to take life too seriously and don't sweat the small stuff.

  38. Amy says

    I don't have a kid, but I have a dog who is my "kid". 🙂 She's taught me to be happier, in general. I love how dogs are always happy!

  48. sarah says

    my kids have changed me for the better because i try to be a good example and role model for them, so i am more aware of doing the right things at the right times.
    stigay at comcast.net

  58. Tamar says

    Yes, they've given me a newfound appreciation for life.
    I was pretty depressed until I met my husband and then had my children. I am so happy with them.
    tamarsweeps-at-gmail-dot-com

  60. mickeyfan says

    I have learned that even 30 years later you don't stop worrying. The biggest thing I learned is that the best part of having kids is the GRANDkids! The holidays are SO much more fun when seen (again) through the eyes of the young.

  62. Sara Joy says

    Having my son has made me appreciate things in life more and give me something to try harder for. (littlesillysally at gmail dot com)

  63. Heavensangel2387 says

    I read your story! How sweet. I know you weren't ready, but hey look at all of the joy that did come. More joy than you can ever expect!

    We tried for a year to have a baby, and then finally found out we were having twins. They have changed our lives for the better. My husband and I have gotten closer to God because of the things we went through trying to get pregnant and my son being in the Nicu (5 weeks early).
    We do not drink anymore, we just dedicate our lives and time to our kids. They are such a blessing and truly are the GREATEST gift!!
    Thank you!!
    faithrains2387 (At) Yahoo.com

  65. MaryAnn says

    My kids made me a better person. Before I had kids I was struggling in school, and never saved any money. We had no plan. Now I am a mommy of two, in school full time and doing great with a long term plan.

  66. Birdie Bee says

    My life was headed in the wrong direction when I got pregnant with my first child and went on to have 2 more children. Having children fulfill my life and now I have several grandchildren. Family is everything to me.

  68. JC says

    Having kids taught me not to take things for granted, to treasure every minute and be humble.
    tcarolinep at gmail dot com

  81. Lydia Duran says

    my husband and i met August 18th, 2004 by accident. it was love at first sight. then he proposed after a year and a half of togetherness. we married on our 3 year anniversary of meeting(August 18, 2007). we always wanted kids, but wanted to wait a bit until we would have some. i was on the pill and everything. then my wedding day came, i felt strange. the next day, i still had that strange feeling. i took a test just in case. i thought i could not be because i was on the pill. well two tests later, i was pregnant. we went to the doc and i was 4 weeks along. i could not believe it! we spent our honeymoon in Las Vegas with me throwing up and feeling tired. i had a hard pregnancy, hair falling out, pregnancy mask, alot of weight gain. it was hard. then the due date came and went. i had gone into the doctor three days after my due date to get induced. i was in labor for 12 hours, no dilation, no progress. my daughter's hear beat was getting bad, so they gave me and eipdural to stop the pain. then 10 minutes later they told me i needed to get a c-section because her heart rate was dropping. i looked at my husband and told him, if anything should happen, save her first. my daughter was born at 10:27pm May 1st, 2008. the moment i saw her, i fell in love. then the postpardum happened. i was depressed for 10 months after i had her. once i got a job again, things got better. we did everything with her. traveled, camped, took her everywhere we went. she was an amazing baby. after she turned 3 we decided, we should add another. for a year we tried and in August, again…i found i was pregnant again. i immediately told my daughter and she was happy. she kept telling me she wanted a little brother, but since i was from a familt full of girls, i doubted i would have a boy. i loved having a girl around, i had no idea what to do with a boy. then we took the gender ultrasound picture and it was a boy. my daughter was so happy she kept calling him George. i had a scheduled c-section for April 5th 2012, everything went smoothly and i had decided our family was complete and had my tubes tied. now life is full of craziness. sometimes my kiddos fight, sometimes they hug and snuggle together to watch Frozen. i would not trade my life for anything. this is what i always wanted. a loving husband of almost 7 years, two kiddos that are hilarious and loving. my son will be 2 this Saturday, he loves Elvis, Fedora hats and Ninja Turtles. my daughter will be 6 in a month, she loves My Little Pony, Lady Gaga and fashion. every year brings more and more suprises on how their personality developes. how did my kids change my life? they made it more blessed, more exciting. i would choose a day at home watching them play and cuddle, then go to Paris. they are my excitement. they are my true gifts from God.

  96. Cori Westphal says

    My kids have taught me to be patient, loving, and selfless. They've also proved that a person can function on 6 hours of sleep on a regular basis! LOL

    coriwestphal at msn dot com

  98. Terri says

    My kids have changed me for the better because they taught me how to see the joy in the simple things, the first flower of spring, a cool looking bug, the fun of hiding under blanket forts and the joy of someone laughing as I read to them.

  99. Wanda McHenry says

    I only have a furbaby, I was unfortunate and couldn’t carry. But, she is our joy and she brings so much love and happiness to our life.

  110. cw says

    My daughter has helped me live in the now and see the world through a child's eyes….ahhh the wonder!

    cgies25 at hotmail

  121. Gina Wildorchid says

    My son has made me a much more patient person, and he makes me take the time to stop and appreciate the little things.

    Thanks for the chance to win!

    wildorchid985 at gmail dot com

  125. Nancy Hall says

    They make you slow down and see the world from a different view. It seems that until you have kids you don't appreciate the little things…..things you used to just walk by and never gave a thought to.

  127. Nicole Larsen says

    My kids have made me to constantly strive to be the best mom I can…I quit smoking 5 years ago for them…I’m always trying to set a positive example for them. I was an adventure seeker before them…now I’m much more cautious about EVERYTHING!

    [email protected]

  129. Douglas Houston says

    I tend to be a spur of the moment person but having kids changed that for good. You have to plan things out, you have to bring this, that and the other thing. When a kid has to pee, they mean Now not ten minutes from now.

  135. cpsnsamples says

    As the mother of an autistic child…Ive learned the little things don't matter,who cares if you really cant afford the trip to space center,,in my eyes..u cant afford not too..he is a child with a passion and his life will never be the 9-5 job like most people have..he lives in his own world…ive learned to have patience and go with the flow…we do what we can to make his life as normal as possible and have fun doing it.

  140. dreamcleavers says

    I quit smoking for my little 4 year old daughter because she asked me. After 26 years of the habit I kicked it for her..I want to see her grow up!

  143. Stephanie says

    My kids have changed my life by making me have something to look forward to everyday. They fill me with happiness and joy. I love seeing them learning. My baby is cooing and smiling now… the best!

  144. Admin says

    I feel like having kids made me live in the moment, and taught me what was really important. Being a mom is the best thing in my life. I love my kids more than anything.
    4mariemh atgmaildot com

  147. ellie says

    My kids have changed me completely. The minute I had my first son I knew that the world wasn't all about me anymore. For the first time I experienced true selflessness. I have 3 grown sons and 2 grandsons now and they are the most important things in the world to me.

  152. Maria Simon says

    I cant imagine life with no children in it..they are my sunshine and teach me how to get up each day and enjoy every moment with them …time flies so enjoy each moment

  162. Susan Smoaks says

    my kids have changed my life for the better by showing me how to enjoy the little things in life. life is too short to be mad, just smile and have a good time.

    susansmoaks at gmail dot com

  167. Cheryl says

    My children have made my life better because throughout my childhood, I was unwanted. Having a husband and children has made my life complete. The feelings of nobody needed or wanted me, were dissolved when that precious baby was laid in my arms. I am wanted, I am needed, I am loved for who I am. I am so happy to be able to provide my children with the same security of knowing that they are precious gifts, to me, (even the daughter we have had pass away), and that I will always be mom and will love them to the end of time and beyond.

  177. tina reynolds says

    I understand love so much more and the future is even more important I have a million times more patience. I also use to wish for time to fly by (growup) and now I wish it would slow down. 

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