Indeed, it has been a year since I welcomed a new addition to my li’l family. And now, look at how she has grown!
As you can probably imagine, it has been quite a year for me – and the rest of the family. Juggling being a parent to two kids, full time work, running a household, side projects… Yep. Never a dull moment.
Before this year, I thought I was already one busy woman. Who knew I could do so much more? Made me wonder if I’ve been such a slacker before I had all these things in my life. 
Anyway, other than learning to do more with my time, I’ve picked up a few other lessons along the way since having my little girl…
1. My heart is capable of more love than I could ever imagine. I guess, kids have a way of doing that – in many unexpected ways. But, before having a child, I didn’t think I was capable of loving someone so much. So, when I found out that I was having a second one, I couldn’t fathom the idea of being able to love even more. How can I love two kids that way? I thought hearts have limits. Having my girl made me realise that hearts always have more room for love.
2. Two kids are definitely more than one. Obvious? Perhaps. But, the fact that both my husband and I find our hands full A LOT MORE made us realise that no matter how tiring it was to have one child, at least we can ‘tag team’ before. Now, with two kids clamoring for attention at the same time, there’s no such thing – since we both need to be on duty. And, without extra hands to help us… well, we just need to learn to do more. Unless one of the kids was occupied or asleep, that is. Both of them sleeping at the same time? That’s called rare bliss.
3. Having a daughter is wonderful. Of course, having a son is wonderful too. But yeah, the thought of having a girl really freaked me out before. There are so many reasons behind that thinking, so I won’t get in to them. But now, even though I still wonder what my relationship will be like with my girl as she grows up, I must say that I’m really enjoying our relationship NOW. Yes, I find that there are definitely differences in raising a boy and a girl. Not necessarily because I’m trying to raise them in a different way. It’s just the way they are. And yes, I’m loving that I can buy cute little shoes, clothes, clips, bags, and dolls now. For the girl, of course. Heh.
4. It’s not necessarily easier, just clearer. Everyone kept telling me before that the second time around is easier, yada yada yada. Never believed it, really. And, it’s true. Being a second time parent isn’t necessarily an easier situation. But, the good thing is that I don’t find myself panicking so much. I feel more confident in my decisions and choices.
5. Happiness comes in twos. While it may feel that it’s harder work having two kids, it also brings double the joy. It’s such a pleasure seeing my two kids grow up. My heart overflows when I witness how they interact with each other. The sound of two kids laughing… giggling… playing… It just makes my house feel absolutely like home.
So, here’s to wishing friends who’re expecting their second child all the best.
And yes, to my beautiful girl (even though you won’t be able to read this now, I just want to say…): You’ve changed my life in many many ways. Thank you for being in my life. And, I’m just so grateful that I am in yours. Happy birthday!
Kari (8)
Mitch Mitchell (4)
Connie (3)
eds (2)
Jazzille (2)
Rachel Cotterill (2)
Andreeea (1)
Anne (1)
bcylady (1)
Dave (1)
Your post gives me hope!
And I’m so glad you’ve switched over to WP so it’s much easier to leave comments.
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Shai Coggins reply on April 7th, 2008:
Hsien Lei: You’ll be great 2nd-time, mum! And the great thing is that you’ve got S to be your li’l super helper.
And thanks. WP has definitely made blogging easier & more fun again here at SC.com. And yes, I remember that you were one of my #1 commenters before.
Thanks again!
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Happy Birthday my gorgeous little niece! /hugs
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I too realise that I must have been quite lazy before I had my son. Now I’ve got him (doing the sole parent thing too), work 4 days a week and find time to be online. My TV watching has taken a beating which isn’t a bad thing.
Happy birthday to your daughter.
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Shai Coggins reply on April 7th, 2008:
jen: When I’m on my own taking care of the kids at the same time for long periods (a few days, etc) – my sanity comes dangerously close to breaking point. So, really… hats off to single parents! And, it does look like you’re finding time for a lot of things in your life. Good on you!
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I totally agree! Its may be twice the work in some cases, but its also twice the fun and rewards.
One more thing to look forward to is to see both your children play together nicely (even just for a few minutes) without any adult intervention needed … priceless!
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Shai Coggins reply on April 7th, 2008:
Meme: *waves* Nice to hear from you! And yes – I’m definitely looking forward to that.
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Hi Shai,
Happy birthday to your little girl. Lovely photo. It is more fun having two little ones, and probably more, at home together. I am really noticing it this time, as I have only the little guy. I believe he gets a little lonely sometimes. Kids just make you love them, no matter what they do or how old they get.
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Shai Coggins reply on April 7th, 2008:
Heather: Thank you.
And yes, isn’t it wonderful that we do just love them no matter what? Hope your li’l guy’s doing well!
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Happy Birthday to your little girl! She’s beautiful.
I too have a boy and a girl. As much as I love my son, my whole world changed when my girl was born; she and I have a connection my son and I don’t have. It’s certainly a girl thing.
Your little note to your daughter is so touching and has made me weepy… I need to go and hug my daughter now…
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Shai Coggins reply on April 7th, 2008:
Nenette: Aw, thanks.
Mother-Daughter relationships are interesting, isn’t it? Hope yours continue to flourish!
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Happy birthday to the little one.
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great insights Shai! congratulations on your girl’s 1st birthday, wishing you and your family more blessings. she’s so cute! looks a lot like you…but prettier. he he he.
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Shai Coggins reply on April 7th, 2008:
Glo: Haha. But I seriously know it! Of course, I’m a mum – so I think my kids are gorgeous. Prettier than me for sure!
Thanks for the kind words!
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Happy birthday, Hali! Yes, it’s wonderful to have a daughter. : )
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belated birthday greetings to your uberly adorable baby girl
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Sasha, Em Dy, Connie, sushi: Thank you so much for the greetings for my girl.
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happy birthday to Hali, Shai! This is such a touching post. Bea is turning 11 y/o soon (oh gawd!) and it just made me think of how life has transformed because of her….
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