Before we begin this morning's interview with my oh-so sweet friend and neighbor, Shaina, I would just like everyone to know that A slept for SIX consecutive hours last night! That, my friends, was a great way to start off this busy week! I even had time to fix my hair! For the first time in longer than I'd like to admit (messy bun anyone?). Anyway, I am excited for you to meet Shaina this morning! We have been so blessed by her family this last year & could not be more thankful that they moved in beside us! I remember Shaina getting pregnant with her third child, and thinking to myself, "it would be so great to be pregnant with her!" Lo and behold, the Lord was one step ahead of us. She is truly a blessing and servant to others - enjoy her story as we kick off this work week!
1. Tell us a little about yourself!
I have been married to my college sweetheart, Kevin, for over 10 years and have three very active little boys: Asher (6), Silas (5), and Ezra (7 months). After 6.5 years of serving in the Navy full time, I am currently a stay at home mom and Navy reservist. I love trying new recipes, running, being silly with my family, anything that has to do with autumn, and God has really given me a heart for serving others.
2. What have you noticed to be the biggest differences between your three boys growing up? Similarities?
Asher is my morning person who loves math, food, and video games. Silas is my night owl, he loves Legos, and watching movies. My sweet baby Ezra really wants to keep up with his big brothers which is probably why he started crawling and standing so early! They all love affection, encouragement and snuggling in our bed.
3. What has been the most challenging thing about raising three boys?
Besides the unlimited energy?! I think managing our time is a challenge but we really try to make sure each child gets one on one time with mom and dad; individual attention really gets the older boys talking about what is going on in their world and they love getting to do special errands or activities.
4. Being a mother of three, how do you make time to invest in your husband too?
My relationship with my husband comes before my kids. We really want to show the boys what a loving, God centered relationship looks like and that means taking time for ourselves. Not many people are willing to watch three boys (I cannot imagine why not!) so we have to get creative with date nights. We have no problems putting the boys to bed early and cooking a late dinner together, watching a movie, or even just talking and praying together to hear what is on each other's hearts. We also talk and text often during the day even if it is a quick 'I love and miss you' or a bible verse that we wanted to share.
5. What piece of advice or encouragement would you pass along to other mothers?
Never compare yourself to other moms! We are all gifted so differently and trying to keep up with someone who you think 'has it all' will make you miserable. Celebrate the small victories, even if it is getting a shower before noon or doing a paper mache project without losing your mind! Write down the funny stories and things your children say. I have a separate journal for each boy and it is those priceless memories that will be cherished in the future.
Thanks so much for your time, Shaina! I enjoyed learning even more from you! If you're a mom & would like to be featured on my blog, check out the Contact page and shoot me an email with your info to get started!
I have been married to my college sweetheart, Kevin, for over 10 years and have three very active little boys: Asher (6), Silas (5), and Ezra (7 months). After 6.5 years of serving in the Navy full time, I am currently a stay at home mom and Navy reservist. I love trying new recipes, running, being silly with my family, anything that has to do with autumn, and God has really given me a heart for serving others.
2. What have you noticed to be the biggest differences between your three boys growing up? Similarities?
Asher is my morning person who loves math, food, and video games. Silas is my night owl, he loves Legos, and watching movies. My sweet baby Ezra really wants to keep up with his big brothers which is probably why he started crawling and standing so early! They all love affection, encouragement and snuggling in our bed.
3. What has been the most challenging thing about raising three boys?
Besides the unlimited energy?! I think managing our time is a challenge but we really try to make sure each child gets one on one time with mom and dad; individual attention really gets the older boys talking about what is going on in their world and they love getting to do special errands or activities.
4. Being a mother of three, how do you make time to invest in your husband too?
My relationship with my husband comes before my kids. We really want to show the boys what a loving, God centered relationship looks like and that means taking time for ourselves. Not many people are willing to watch three boys (I cannot imagine why not!) so we have to get creative with date nights. We have no problems putting the boys to bed early and cooking a late dinner together, watching a movie, or even just talking and praying together to hear what is on each other's hearts. We also talk and text often during the day even if it is a quick 'I love and miss you' or a bible verse that we wanted to share.
5. What piece of advice or encouragement would you pass along to other mothers?
Never compare yourself to other moms! We are all gifted so differently and trying to keep up with someone who you think 'has it all' will make you miserable. Celebrate the small victories, even if it is getting a shower before noon or doing a paper mache project without losing your mind! Write down the funny stories and things your children say. I have a separate journal for each boy and it is those priceless memories that will be cherished in the future.
Thanks so much for your time, Shaina! I enjoyed learning even more from you! If you're a mom & would like to be featured on my blog, check out the Contact page and shoot me an email with your info to get started!