I told my mom a few weeks ago about how stressed I was.

No money,

in between jobs,

buying diapers,

paying bills (and not paying bills),

stress with my relationship with Eric,

trying to lose the baby weight,

no money to buy cute clothes that actually fit me (aka: not maternity and nothing I have to hold my breath in order to squeeze myself into)…

And then she paused and said, “Kari, all you have to do is look into your little baby’s eyes. That’s when you’ll realize this will all be worth it.”

Thanks mom. You’re right. He’s worth it.

     In speaking of mothers generally, I especially wish to praise and encourage young mothers. The work of a mother is hard, too often unheralded work. The young years are often those when either husband or wife—or both—may still be in school or in those earliest and leanest stages of developing the husband’s breadwinning capacities. Finances fluctuate daily between low and nonexistent. The apartment is usually decorated in one of two smart designs—Deseret Industries provincial or early Mother Hubbard. The car, if there is one, runs on smooth tires and an empty tank. But with night feedings and night teethings, often the greatest challenge of all for a young mother is simply fatigue. Through these years, mothers go longer on less sleep and give more to others with less personal renewal for themselves than any other group I know at any other time in life. It is not surprising when the shadows under their eyes sometimes vaguely resemble the state of Rhode Island.

     …Do the best you can through these years, but whatever else you do, cherish that role that is so uniquely yours and for which heaven itself sends angels to watch over you and your little ones. Husbands—especially husbands—as well as Church leaders and friends in every direction, be helpful and sensitive and wise. Remember, “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”–Jeffery R. Holland, Because She Is a Mother

To every thing, there is a season and purpose. My purpose now is to be Lewis’s mother and Eric’s number one supporter. Right now is a season of faith, patience, learning, and humbling experiences.

Lewis will be four months old in one week. Right now, he is laughing and smiling, almost rolling over, and loves staring at Chase. He sleeps 10-11 hours straight through the night every night and takes good naps. He couldn’t be more perfect. I am lucky. I love him and I love my little family.

And I love my mom. I am so glad she’s around to help remind me of what’s really important.