I have been thinking recently about what I want to remind myself of regarding other phases or states of life I have already been through, and will go through (or am currently in) again. So here we go. Maybe some of these will resonate with and encourage you too.Hey Emily...LISTEN UP!!!!
When you have a 3 year old... It's the worst age, really the worst. But just remember that Samantha at age 3 was an entirely different person than at age 4. The child who you seriously considered enrolling in multiple preschools just to have more breaks from her turned into the child you are really sad will be going to Kindergarten next year. This too shall pass.
When you are 18 weeks pregnant (and every week before and after that point)...There was nothing you could have done to cause or prevent the loss of your baby at 18 weeks. Remember that. There is nothing you can do now to cause or prevent another pregnancy loss. Rest in the fact that we are not in control. Rest in the One that is.
When you are post-partum and can't lose weight as fast as you would like...You did it twice, and you will do it again. It might take 12+ months, but it will come off. Give yourself grace. It takes you a long time, but in the long run who really cares if you have a few months of chubby pictures and tight clothes to show for it. Focus on that sweet baby. And remember, this time when you lose the weight it will be for keeps!
When your house is a disaster...Some day the kids will be at school, or out of the house for good, and the house will be spotless...and sooooo quiet...waaaay too quiet. When the day comes that you can actually keep the house clean, you might miss the days of a messy house and the baby/toddler/preschool years responsible for that mess. The mess means you have little ones who live and play in your home all day long, and that's a good thing. Try not to let it get to you so much.When you are tired...like every day...take a nap whenever possible. Seriously. Let the house go and NAP! And go to bed earlier. Things seem overwhelming after 9 or 10pm, so call it a day and start fresh the next morning.
When you question your sanity or what the heck you are doing everyday...Read this post you wrote about being a stay-at-home-mom.
When you question if you are doing enough, if you are good enough as a mother...Read this awesome post someone else wrote and forget trying to carpe every diem, just try to carpe a few minutes each day, or a day or two each week. You love those children fiercely, and that is the best and the most you can do for them.
What would you like to say to yourself? Try writing it down somewhere, it is quite liberating.
