For as long as there are parents and children debates will rage about the "right" way to go about family life. Arguments about parenting are some of the most ferocious I've ever witnessed; more so than those about politics and religion combined. From breastfeeding to co-sleeping; attachment parenting and baby wearing, routines, weaning, sleep training, the minefield is endless.

It always amazes me the strength of feeling, and if I'm honest, the volume of stupidity. Perhaps its just that those with the strongest feelings are often those with the most extreme views based on the least evidence, and that those same people tend to shout the loudest and drown out or inflame those who are usually well reasoned, intelligent and secure. It makes me wonder if people ever stop to question what they hear or read on the internet but I suppose its more a case that you look for evidence to back up your beliefs. I know I do.

The one that me and Ben struggle with most is the argument about how to cope with a baby who doesn't sleep well. It doesn't help that we sit on opposite sides of the fence. We've often found ourselves bombarded with strict instructions to deal with it a certain way and advice that borders on the aggressive. Its hard to be on the receiving end but its even more heartbreaking to watch it from the other side. What I don't understand is why we don't talk to and treat each other as if we all have a functioning brain. Parents instincts and understanding of their own children is so undervalued, but so completely essential and more important than words can express. I believe that with all of my heart. Its sad to see parents undermining each other and dishing out well meaning advice in place of support and encouragement that builds confidence and reassurance.

Most of you will know that Isaac's sleep is an ongoing issue. Its debilitating, infuriating, upsetting and demoralising. I have felt utterly helpless, sick with stress and exhaustion. This last few weeks have been particularly bad and I've often felt like we have no option but to CIO. When I think about leaving my baby to cry I feel my chest tighten and my stomache knot. I know many parents who have done it and its helped them and I support their right to choose that. But it doesn't sit right with me. I'm grateful for my wonderful husband who supports me and understands even if he doesn't agree. He has sacrificed a lot to make sure I am happy with how we cope with Isaac's sleep and I will always be thankful for that. Today, I believe, I reached a turning point. And its not the point at which I suddenly believe Isaac's sleep is going to be fixed in the next week. Its the turning point that goes from "I don't have any other option but to do what I don't want to" to being comfortable in my own skin, comfortable with my decisions as a Mother and still feeling positive that with hard work we can help our baby sleep well without needing us quite so much. Tonight was the first night of our new plan and its gone really well. He's settled better than
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Giving your all

It's so easy to forget what you love. Maybe it's the monotony of everyday life that slowly erodes who you are, what you love doing, the relationships with those you love the most. It's easier to argue with your husband than it is to make time to do something fun together. We've found it especially hard to adjust to the full time nature of being parents, but it anything can get in the way: work, church, computer games, or just the daily grind. What an awful phrase, the daily grind.

Does life really have to be like that? Why don't we make time for ourselves, for each other? Why is it easier to be annoyed at the inconvience of your kids wanting to play when your busy doing something "more important" than it is to just enjoy that they want to spend time with them. To be silly, and play, or to include them in what your doing. Surely there's a better way. Every minute is a minute we won't get back.

That sounds kinda dire, doesn't it? But that's really not how I mean it. I'm getting a bit excited! I'll be honest, I'm exhausted, I'm a bit sore, and 13 months on I'm STILL not getting enough sleep! Which definitely makes for a grumpy Laura. But even so, today is one day that I will never get back. I will never get back the three more hours I have to myself before Isaac gets back from the childminder. So, instead of spending it on computer games, or watching crap on telly (really, has daytime tv alwasy been this bad?!?) I could make the most of it. I could SLEEP! Or, I could get my uni books out and do some much needed study, get prepared for next year so I can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying my baby. Or, I could write this. I had forgotten how much I love this space to organise my thoughts, vent my latest frustration, or type excitedly about the latest thing occuping my brain. At least it gives my hubby a break from the assault on his ears caused by the latest nappy I'm trying out, or water use in Dubai, or whatever else happens to be occupying my brain.
I read a book ages ago written about the proverbs, or at least, I read the first chapter or so - I am a bit of a book slut and find it difficult to finish one before I get excited about the next one. Anyway, I'll always remember it talking about living life completely to the full. Giving everything 10 out of 10. It spoke of how many people misunderstand that as taking on lots and lots and lots of different things; but really it's about choosing to do what you can give a lot to and get a lot from; choosing what's really important and giving that 100%. I obviously didn't take this advice when it comes to my reading patterns. But the importance of making sure you take the proper time to look after yourself, your relationships, and being wise in your choice of commitments really struck a chord with me.

How can you not enjoy that cheeky face??? So, here's to today, and to taking the time to enjoy it. ;)