I am exhausted. Caring for a newborn is hard enough, but throw in two rambunctious boys and it’s enough to drive anyone a little crazy. My two year old is being a typical two year old I am sure: into everything! My spirited four year old is really trying my patience with some meltdowns thrown in for good measure. My newborn is having tummy troubles and not sleeping well, plus breastfeeding is still pretty painful from a bout of thrush and then mastitis.

So I read Parents magazine at a perfect time, even though I take issue with many of the articles they publish, a “Memo to Mommy” reminding us to take the time to stop and enjoy our kids no matter what kind of trouble they may be causing in the moment. Here are some of my favorite bits of wisdom from the perspective of your little one:

“Love me, even when I’m naughty. I’ll only be this age once.”

“Be patient. I do everything for a reason, but I don’t know enough words yet to give you an explanation”

“Don’t expect too much of me. I want to do what you ask and make you happy, but I’m still little.”

“Keep your promises. It’s all about trust. When I’m a teenager, you’ll understand why it’s so important.”

Just looking at those little faces (when they’re not screaming, crying, whining) makes me want to be a better person for them. Take more time with them. Be more creative with them. Just look what they can do:

2 year old’s picture:

4 year old’s picture:

What are your favorite things about your kids? What is your favorite thing to do with them? And what reminds you of these things when you they are making you crazy?

Source: Parents