​I thought when I had my second son that it would be easier. The mystery that comes with being a first time mom was gone. I knew about diapers and feeding schedules. I knew that the first weeks after leaving the hospital can be the most challenging. I knew that emotions and sleepless nights can get the best of you. But I had done this before so this time would be just like the last, right? Wrong. So wrong.

After less than a week home from the hospital, I was an emotional wreck.This time I dealt with a baby that wanted to be with me both day and night. That meant very little sleep, like less than 3 hours a night. Breastfeeding my first son was so easy. But with my second baby boy I was struggling and it immediately made me feel like I was failing as a mom.This baby was way more demanding than my first son. Getting him on a routine that was so easily established with my first was taking so much longer. So many differences. I felt like all that I had learned with my first son didn't count. It was like I was a first time mom all over again. 

At first, all these differences where so over whelming. Now that my little Britton is almost a month old I'm discovering that each child is really unique and that's totally ok! Maybe it's because I finally got a few nights of good sleep or just a change in my attitude. But I have come to realize these "differences" make me truly appreciate my new son. All these new challenges are part of the experience and joy of motherhood. And YOU and I have the strength to get through them!

Whether you have one child or five, being a mom means learning that you don't know it all. You'll learn as you go. Each day (and each child) will bring a new lesson and a new experience. Don't worry. Don't be scared. Don't let those insecurities get the best of you. You are a beautiful mother full of strength. You got this! 

And honestly, looking at these cute faces everyday makes all the struggles worth it!