Confession: We didn't sleep train Luisa until she was nearly a year and a half old, late last summer. We might have done it a few months sooner, but we spent several months traveling during our long, drawn-out move from Korea to Ann Arbor, and it was too much upheaval in her little life as it was. Truthfully, even I didn't feel ready until last summer. I needed to have her close to me for breastfeeding and comfort, which I think is a normal - and fleeting! - part of motherhood. It was so sweet to hold her in her sleep and kiss her fat baby cheeks.
Since Luisa started sleeping in her own room, I have so much free time in the evenings to hang out and have my own life again (within range of the video monitor). This fall, Juan and I loved lighting a fire in the fire pit in our backyard and enjoying beer and s'mores with our neighbors and friends, or even just with each other. Now that it's winter, I like to make a cup of tea and cozy up with Juan on the couch. Sometimes we sit next to each other while we work, and on good nights, we watch a TV show together (House of Cards, right now). I plan to enjoy my evenings with a glass of rosé on our screened-in porch in the summer.
Much like enjoying all four seasons in Michigan, I'm enjoying all these phases of life. It's so satisfying to mother an infant in the way that comes most naturally to both of you, and then for both you and your baby to slowly gain independence from one another.
When did your kids start sleeping in their own rooms? What are your favorite evening rituals once they're in bed? Spill it in the comments!
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