Embracing the Beauty of Second Chances in Parenthood!

Join My Heartfelt Journey of Love, Lasts, and Cherished Moments!

Hello MindFull Readers, Welcome Back!

In the journey of life, there often comes a moment that takes us by surprise, fills our hearts with wonder, and deepens the colors of our existence. For me, that moment arrived when I welcomed my second child into this world.

I was 26, nearly 27, when I cradled my first daughter (Big A) in my arms. In the blink of an eye, at 28, she arrived, my second precious daughter (Small A). The timing brought its own set of challenges, as the age gap between the two of them was quite close. I found myself navigating the early years with two little ones in tow, a journey that came bundled with postpartum depression and the quick decay of my first marriage. But that story, my dear readers, is one for another newsletter.

Amid the whirlwind of those days, I was exhausted, utterly worn out. Yet, within that exhaustion, within those challenging moments, I discovered a beautiful experience. Small A to me, became a beacon of love, teaching me that love knows no bounds, no limits.

Small A may be the younger sibling, and indeed, all the "firsts" were claimed by her older sister. We, as parents, celebrated their first steps, their first words, and their first day of school. But for Small A, she brought something equally magical into my life.

My youngest has gifted me all my "lasts”. She gifts me the privilege of witnessing the joy of "last first steps”, "last first words”, and "last first days of school”. It's a unique and precious gift, one that carries its own kind of wonder and enchantment. I may have already celebrated these milestones with your older sister, but I cherish them as if they were the very first once again.

Six years have drifted by like a gentle breeze, and this time next year, Small A will be stepping into the world of Primary School. Parenthood, I've come to realize, is a bittersweet journey. The days may seem long, but the years are fleeting.

Have any other parents felt this way before? It's a complex, bittersweet feeling. How can I describe it? It's a blend of "I wish you would grow up so I can catch my breath" and yet, secretly, a longing for time to stand still, for we know that soon there won't be small ones to hold onto anymore.

If you find yourself relating to these mixed emotions, know that you are not alone. This is just another phase in the intricate mosaic of parenthood. We must be mindful of our own emotions as we navigate this journey alongside our children.

With warmth and mindfulness,

Michelle Lim | Founder of The MindFull Parent | Reparenting Life Coach