I seem to be able to get lots of photos of Benjamin because he is my little sidekick.
He is usually right by my side and ever so willing to let me photograph him.
The other two…that is a different story.
They are usually running past me in a blur on their way to do something.
At the farm I was able to pin them down and capture a few shots of them.
They were hot, sweaty and dirty….and it was perfect because it was real.
I am so happy with how the shots turned out and it really captured their love for one another and the fun they (usually) have with one another.
What you don't know from these photos is how these children have changed me.
My sister once said that I have gotten sweeter with each baby. She didn't mean it as an insult and I didn't take it that way.
She was just telling me honestly that I am a better person because I have had children.
I was a good friend, sister, daughter, wife….but the truth is I was pretty selfish.
I wanted what I wanted, when I wanted it and honestly I usually got it.
My house was perfect. The cabinets were organized and I was a little psycho preparing for someone to visit.
Thank the Lord for these babies….seriously…..I can't imagine still worrying all about me everyday.
It is hard being a mom. Most things are about them…that is what happens. That is what a good parent does. It doesn't mean you still don't make time for yourself. That would be so destructive…but it isn't all about us and what we want all of the time.
If you have children…stop…think for one moment what it would be like if they were taken away from you forever…doesn't that put things in perspective.
That one horrible thought can bring tears to my eyes. All the things I think I want to do would not even be appealing if all I ever had was time for myself again.
I am a better friend, sister, daughter and wife because of the three children in my life.
They have been a mirror so many times of myself. That has been hard. It has forced me to change.
I am so grateful that I have become sweeter with every baby.
I hope my sister thinks I am sweet enough…because we are done having babies:-)
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The winner of the Janet Hill Studios print is Teresa from Mimi and Reese.
Congratulations on winning this gorgeous print!
You can thank my oldest son…he was my number generator:-)
Please email me with your address and Janet will get this out to you right away!
Dont' forget that I have huge savings in my shop right now. I would also like to offer free shipping to all my blog followers. Just type in "Blogger" in the message to seller and I will refund the shipping costs.
I love what you captured of your precious children in picture format….their joy, enthusiasm, adventure, playfulness, and love! I love what you were able to express in words too. Love you. M
What a great post! I’m sure you were sweet before, but kids definitely change us – I think they make us more generous, loving people. Mine bring me more joy and happiness than I ever thought possible – along with some worries and frustrations – and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
fantastic photos and beautiful words jeanne!
what a wonderful compliment from your sister.
we’re done too…i wonder if you can get any sweeter from getting a puppy? hmmmmm.
have a wonderful 4th of july weekend ~
chasity
What a beautiful post and the pictures are fabulous! Your children are so beautiful and that barn is fantastic! I think I need to have a kid, I get so psycho preparing for someone to visit…sigh!
Hugs,
Karyn
Motherhood will by no means ever be perfect in any way… We sure do try. Wo so cherish the “real” moments we are able to capture and freeze in time!!! I love the photos and your words….Thank you for encouraging me today!!!
God bless you and your beautiful family!
: )
Julie M.
a perfect post.
LOVE seeing your sweet kiddo’s faces!
Have a great holiday weekend with them!!
xoxo
Your post is soooo true! My two children are simply wonderful to me and my husband. I love your daughter’s dress and wondering if you made it? Very pretty.
Hi Jeanne, Just LOVE the pics of the kids!!!
Beautiful photos of beautiful children! By “little one” just turned 14 yesterday (gasp!). As I was driving her home from her art class, I realized what a wonderful young lady she has grown to be, and how much I enjoy her company. Time truly goes too fast – treasure each and every moment!
Sue
what a beautiful post…having one 3 yr old with another on the way next month – i can relate (or dream) to what you are speaking of. just found you via kelly rae – you have a beautiful blog. warmly, s
What great pictures Jeanne you have captured some precious moments, the colours are so great, your children are stunning, & I totaly agree we have to hold on to these moments I have decided on Sundays to stop blogging (getting a bit adictive) so the computer will be off & its family time for me, thanks for reminding me how precious time is, have a great weekend 🙂
It’s you! Of Sadie Olive fame. 🙂 I just browsed your etsy shoppe last night and loved it all! Do you make that Polly skirt in a size S? 🙂 So surprised to have such a kind comment on my blog from you today about the bathroom – thanks a million for stopping by! Your kids are beautiful and I loved all you shared about being a mama. Have a fantastic 4th!
you’re so right, i know i have changed in many ways and i think most of them for the better. i adore my children and couldn’t fathom my life without them. they indeed are my greatest blessings.
i love, love the shot of j and m on the tractor with the wheel and clouds behind them! what a great way to start the day–reading your post and seeing such fun shots of those beautiful, little people! love you!
Cute cute cute! I loved reading your message here. Oliver changed me for the better too. I have had that exact thought before…that none of these others things would matter at all if something happened to my baby. Have a wonderful weekend!
these pictures are gorgeous. your children are so beautiful!!
Jeanne your children are just beautiful! I can totally relate to this post. I too feel I have changed for the better with having children, and they definitely have a way of putting your life in perspective. Hope you have a wonderful 4th of July weekend:)
T
Thank you for the reminder. Happy 4th!
Beautiful, beautiful sentiments, Jeanne. Thank you so much for taking the time to articulate and to share!
thank you. i was having a little pity party last night since my “me time” has gone to zero with school out. i needed this post, i really did, and your writing is so eloquent it was touching to read and very honest.
your children are beautiful and you captured some amazing moments.
happy and safe 4th to all.
thanks again!
xo
elyse
wow! those are really great pictures…
taking picts. of the kids are one of my favorite things to do….
i too really like Missy Higgins…one of my favorite songs too! I’m trying to learn how to play it on the piano….
I Always tell myself it is esy to be a bad parent and hard to be a good one. That way when it gets tough, I know I am doing the right thing! The best thing a child can have is a good parent. Looks like your sweet three have a great one!
xoxo, Tiffany
Thanks for leaving a comment about my happy fourth shoes! I love your blog and will check it out often. I just read about you and your fabulous badges on Sadie Olive. I love those! Totally want one. Everyone will for sure. Hope you had a good holiday with your beautiful kids.
Jeanne, that was beautifully written. I agree 100%, most of my real growing & learning about myself has been through being a mom. Someone once said “it’s the toughest job you’ll ever love.”
Jeanne, I stumbled upon your blog via Kelly Rae’s blog and I am truly blessed by reading this post. I am glad you won the bag so that I could read your blog and be encouraged. BTW- I love your stuff on Etsy. I am so impressed by those of you who can embrace motherhood and run a creative business at the same time. I am exploring what that might look like for me….-Dorothy
Love love love this post!!
I’m glad to be back home and be able to read your blog again.
Beautiful pics of the kids! I love seeing your older babes!
Great post Jeanne, so true…I only have one and I feel the exact same way..gorgeous photos of your kids, love the colors!