I built DS1 a cubby house and covered it in holographic contact paper. It even has a 'fridge' and a plastic slide. I did this (with daddy's help) despite having a 9 week old demanding much of my time.

I sacrificed the biggest bedroom in the house to create a play room. There's a ball pit permanently set up. A freaking ball pit. It goes great with the cubby. I put up with little coloured balls floating around the house randomly because he loves them.

even though I've had an awful first experience with birth, and a boy who has never slept reasonably in his whole 2.5years.... I was brave enough to face it all again.

I was brave enough to attempt a VBAC and fight anyone who tried to stand in my way.

I was brave enough to accept another emergency c/s despite my terror inside.

I have no family support whatsoever. But I'm strong enough to raise my boys without relying on anyone but DP and myself.

The last few days have been horribly hard. Both kids have colds and I'm developing one now too. But I carry on. It's just a cold. not like I had my abdomen sliced open or anything lol. That's my new gauge for agony. I think on that scale. .... I'm doing fine!