I had a coffee today. For the first time in 10 months, I knowingly consumed a caffeinated beverage. I paid for it later when my finally babies felt the effects of that cup of joe. But at the time, the warm, hazel liquid sweetened to perfection with chocolate milk and a tiny bit of sugar was pure bliss.
The fact of the matter is, fatigue is a regular visitor at our house these days. But thankfully, so are members of our family. If it weren\’t for the frequent visits of my mom, dad and step mom and my grandmother – Clay and I probably would have had a very difficult time functioning in the last month.
If our current lives were in numbers, it would look something like this:
40 horses to look after
16 show animals to train and ride
2 stallions to breed and collect
6 broodmares with foals at side to care for and re-breed for next year
PLUS
2 babies
EQUALS
20 diapers a day
6 feedings per baby a day
12 hours spent feeding per day
AND 2 adoring, but exhausted parents at the end of the day.
Of course, we wouldn\’t give this life up for anything. And as mentioned, we have had some excellent help. Life with twin babies is an adventure we have been lucky to greet with the open and helpful arms of family. Which is why today\’s blog is dedicated to them.
When my mother came, I actually had a chance to leave the house and get back on a horse for the first time since last October! What a feeling that was.
When my dad and step mom came, I actually caught up on some sleep and some other very important administrative issues. Plus, dad is pretty handy at figuring out all the new-fangled products that go along with parenthood. As my Aunt Sherry would say – it looks like a baby-bomb went off in our house… Fortunately, everyone seems to turn a blind eye to this! (grin)
And when my grandmother comes, Clay and I eat much healthier and get back on a regular schedule.
Additionally, all the help and support of friends and family has afforded Clay the time he needs to be in the barn each day, which would have been almost impossible otherwise. Considering this busy time of breeding season, which involves shipping semen, foaling out mares, and ultrasounding mares in addition to regular training duties, family has been a Godsend for me – especially because my time with 2 free hands is a precious luxury these days and does not happen often.
I understand now why they say it takes a village to raise a child! We are very blessed to have the continued support of friends and family. Thank-you to you all.
3 thoughts on “It Takes A Village”
Wonderful update on the twins and your wellbeing, Jenn. Great pics as always!
Thanks so much honey for letting us know what’s going on! We knew you’d be busy and grateful that you’re getting the help you need. I remember what one at a time was like (sleep deprived and worried beyond reason) and can only imagine what managing 2 and a house and a barn full of horses and a husband is like! Hang in there kiddo. Love ya!
It will get to be less work, Jenn and lots more fun. You’re doing a great job- they look wonderful. Life will never be the same, but it will become normal and you will get a whole night’s sleep again one day. Being a parent is the most special, important and rewarding thing you will ever do. And you’re off to a fantastic start!