Joy Looks Different Now

Photos | Jessica Rediker

We recently took the kids back to our old stomping grounds, Kitchener. After we got married, we moved into the sweetest apartment, downtown Kitchener. It was an old brick factory that had been converted into an apartment building. It was the best apartment we could have asked for. We had a lot of great memories in that place. It blows my mind to think of all the changes that have taken place in our lives since we lived there. We were married, we spent time traveling, we bought our first house, had two kids, changed jobs - even our relationship has changed in so many ways.

Having kids has challenged me beyond what I could have imagined. Becoming a mother has taught me a lot about myself - I've discovered that I'm capable of so much more than I thought I was. From going through months of pregnancy, through the physical challenges of delivery, and now, the humbling task of putting my needs second (DAILY). My body isn't the same; a fact that I work through everyday. My time is not my own; I am focused on these two precious ones, helping them learn, discover and grow into beautiful, loving humans. My relationship with Jesse has changed; we continue to learn more about each other as we to stand together as parents. 

Each day presents a new set of joys and challenges. Some days are harder than others. Through it all, I am realizing that I can't allow my perspective to be shaped by my emotions.  Sometimes, joy starts with a DECISION to be grateful and then waiting for the circumstances to catch up with my decision, instead of waiting for the perfect circumstances to choose gratitude.