Yesterday was TOUGH. It was one of those "hard days". Not for any particularly unique reason; I just didn't have the strength or patience to cope as well as usual.
I had decided at the beginning of the day that I would shower but not make a fuss about my appearance. I was going to put on comfy clothes, put my hair up wet, and TACKLE the laundry and other household chores. Well, instead of my look (which was already two steps down from my usual shorts, t-shirt, and make-up- I know, glamorous right?) degenerating in to a "pretty" frazzled state... you know, the wisps of flying hair, the face flushed with exertion, the knitted brow of a woman at her tasks... mine sort of just fell apart. Hair that wasn't wispy pretties, but chunks falling out of my hair band that WOULD NOT STAY. I was frumpy and grumpy.
That would have been bearable, and generally not worth mentioning had my look not been later completed by a bloody lip. I was sitting on the floor with the kids enjoying our daily "room time" which is play time with Mommy in their room. Amelia walked up and began tapping my cheek with her little wooden, yellow ball. Before I could finish correcting her, "We don't hhh...." POP! She whacked my lip, catching it perfectly between the ball and a tooth on the other side causing it to split open.
I was surprisingly collected despite the pain and finished correcting her, but the weight of the day and my frumpy grumpy came rushing over me in full force just seconds later. I sat on the floor and just CRIED. I buried my face in my hand, holding my bloody lip and cried. I wanted to step away from the kids and really let it all out, but not trusting that Amelia wouldn't stumble and sit on Mason's face, or worse find another ball, I didn't want to leave her alone with Mason lying unsuspecting nearby. To top it off, she was laughing at me. She didn't understand what I was doing, and probably thought I was giggling behind my hands, ready to pop out for peek-a-boo any minute. But I wasn't. I was crying. So frustrated, tired, and completely out of patience and there she was. Standing there laughing at me.
It was one of those "low moments" as a Mom. You just feel like you can't get it together. I did eventually find the strength to stand up and get a rag for my lip and take a couple of deep breaths. I wish I could say that the day ended later in one of those magical moments where Amelia curled up in my lap or did some sweet new thing and made it all ok, but it didn't. I did however get handsome hubby to bring home some dinner while I took an hour off and watched TV. And, I survived. I didn't kill me. Here I am to live another day.
This motherhood thing is wonderful, amazing, and truly a great gift to experience. But some days it's just HARD.
July 22, 2011
July 5, 2011
A Day In the Life....
In keeping with my last post, I wanted to share a link to THIS blog. Annalea Hart is a lovely Christian, home-schooling mom who has been hosting guest posters on her blog to give a realistic look into their day-to-day lives as moms, bloggers, creators, and more. It's SO encouraging to know that they don't all have it all together, and the challenges of daily life truly do come to us all. Check out the collection of posts HERE.
June 24, 2011
My love/hate relationship with Blogland
I am a mom. I am a crafty mom. I love color. I love the little things. I love seeing God in the little things. I love how BIG God is, too.
And I love reading blogs... LOTS of blogs. Blogs about other crafty mommas who love their babies, love their crafts, love color, and most of all love God. But it can be overwhelming, too. Blogland presents us with unlimited opportunities to create, design, do, share, grow, cook, teach, try etc. And sometimes it seems that all those other crafty mommas have it more together than you. Or that you have nothing to offer because look what everyone else has already contributed!
This happens to me fairly often. I know in my heart I have a lot to say and a lot to create. But would anyone really care? The Enemy of my very soul likes to take what could be inspiration and encouragement and turn it into a "you're not measuring up" guilt-fest or a "no one really cares what YOU have to say" pity party. Ugh. This has been a particularly favorite lie of the Enemy throughout my life and I'm getting rather tired of agreeing with it.
Because it's simply not true! These days in the midst of fighting to do what is IMPORTANT and not sweat the rest (aka laundry, baby toys, and dirty toilets), I am also determined to do the little things that make me happy whether or not it means anything to anyone else. God has granted me certain talents and they were meant to be enjoyed! If anyone (besides my loving hubby or amazing kiddos) benefits from my pursuit of developing and sharing these gifts, so much the better!
I've wanted to begin blogging again for some time now. I want to move beyond the days of Myspace journals and Facebook notes and simply put my heart out there. I want to share my thoughts on motherhood, being a wife, and being a daughter of the King. I want to share found inspiration and pretty things. I want to share the things I've made and maybe someday write tutorials.
So here it is. I'm jumping in. Sporadically- as that is the only way it will fit into my schedule. But jumping in none the less. :-) I do know that I have fantastic friends as well, and I hope that some of them will find this little blogging adventure to be an additional peek into my heart.
And I love reading blogs... LOTS of blogs. Blogs about other crafty mommas who love their babies, love their crafts, love color, and most of all love God. But it can be overwhelming, too. Blogland presents us with unlimited opportunities to create, design, do, share, grow, cook, teach, try etc. And sometimes it seems that all those other crafty mommas have it more together than you. Or that you have nothing to offer because look what everyone else has already contributed!
This happens to me fairly often. I know in my heart I have a lot to say and a lot to create. But would anyone really care? The Enemy of my very soul likes to take what could be inspiration and encouragement and turn it into a "you're not measuring up" guilt-fest or a "no one really cares what YOU have to say" pity party. Ugh. This has been a particularly favorite lie of the Enemy throughout my life and I'm getting rather tired of agreeing with it.
Because it's simply not true! These days in the midst of fighting to do what is IMPORTANT and not sweat the rest (aka laundry, baby toys, and dirty toilets), I am also determined to do the little things that make me happy whether or not it means anything to anyone else. God has granted me certain talents and they were meant to be enjoyed! If anyone (besides my loving hubby or amazing kiddos) benefits from my pursuit of developing and sharing these gifts, so much the better!
I've wanted to begin blogging again for some time now. I want to move beyond the days of Myspace journals and Facebook notes and simply put my heart out there. I want to share my thoughts on motherhood, being a wife, and being a daughter of the King. I want to share found inspiration and pretty things. I want to share the things I've made and maybe someday write tutorials.
So here it is. I'm jumping in. Sporadically- as that is the only way it will fit into my schedule. But jumping in none the less. :-) I do know that I have fantastic friends as well, and I hope that some of them will find this little blogging adventure to be an additional peek into my heart.
June 6, 2011
Not Quite Supermom
Being a young mother of two under two is a major adventure. In fact, I think just being a mother is an “adventure” most days! Sometimes you need to know that you’re not alone. That you’re not the only one who sometimes…
- Feels like finishing the laundry is like finishing a tri-athalon
- Leaves things half-done all over the house because you get distracted doing something else “more urgent”
- Has stopped being grossed out by “regular” poopy diapers because you’ve changed so many you no longer care. The REALLY nasty ones still get you though…. Like, the “up the back and out the sides”
- Is constantly torn between taking a nap and getting something done
- Is constantly torn between the million things you need to do and the million things you want to do, (And yes, there are a million of both), and the fact that you really just want to do nothing at all
- Is so tired she tries to butter her toast with the scrambled eggs. Yes. I really did that. This morning.
- Is jealous of other moms who seem to have it “more together” (they don’t), or actually get to sleep (they didn’t always)
- Must apologize for random outbursts of tears that are about nothing and everything all at the same time
Can I get an “amen” girls?!
August 12, 2010
A Comical Look at Pregnancy
Dear Monsieur Toilette,
Ah my old friend, it seems we will be renewing our intimate acquaintance. I can't say I'm glad about this. Please understand however, when I am scowling into your porcelain visage, it is not you who is making my stomach turn. You have indeed been a faithful servant during my times of multiplied need. My morning visits have been most foul, and I'm certain my many night time interruptions were not entirely welcome. But you sit stoically, and quietly. Doing your duty when I must do mine. You have taken so much crap from me, and still you remain. Constantly there for me. Always available in my hour, moment, err.... second after second of immediate need. I thank you in advance for the many times I will call upon you to hold me up over the next several months. I know I can count on you.
Sincerely,
Madonna with Child (Again)
Ah my old friend, it seems we will be renewing our intimate acquaintance. I can't say I'm glad about this. Please understand however, when I am scowling into your porcelain visage, it is not you who is making my stomach turn. You have indeed been a faithful servant during my times of multiplied need. My morning visits have been most foul, and I'm certain my many night time interruptions were not entirely welcome. But you sit stoically, and quietly. Doing your duty when I must do mine. You have taken so much crap from me, and still you remain. Constantly there for me. Always available in my hour, moment, err.... second after second of immediate need. I thank you in advance for the many times I will call upon you to hold me up over the next several months. I know I can count on you.
Sincerely,
Madonna with Child (Again)
August 9, 2010
She's BAAA-AAACK!
It's been a long time since I've posted. Saying I've been busy would be both inaccurate and an understatement. Inaccurate, because some days I don't feel like I've done ANYTHING of significant value (and yes, I do realize just being a Mommy is totally significant... but there are days... you know you have them), and an understatement because other days feel so crazy and nutty I'm surprised I've survived.
I feel a tad bit chagrined when I look at my last post. I was so enthusiastic about sewing my first dress and a matching one for Mia. I washed, dried, and folded the fabric. End of story. Now, it's getting so close to fall which is QUICKLY followed by winter here in Alaska, and I'm debating whether or not to even tackle the dress until next spring when Amelia can actually get a few uses out of her version. Maybe I could make a long sleeved version. I'm also beginning to think my fabric would make AMAZINGLY cute pajama shorts... hmm.... or a nightie... hmmm again.
I have made a couple of things here and there. I whipped this changing pad cover and wipes case up for a dear friend.
I made a soft, taggie ball for Miss Amelia, which resulted in two more being made for sweet friends.
And I have started a pile of 30 cloth wipes which is still waiting to be finished. I have a hooded towel in the works for one of Brian's co-workers who is a proud new Daddy, and I have terry cloth to make a second changing pad cover for Amelia since ours is ALWAYS in the wash, and vinyl is just not so nice on tiny bottoms.
I also have a large number of starred and bookmarked blog tutorials from other amazing mommas that I would also love to "whip up". So as you can see I'm rather enthusiastic about what I'd LIKE to do, I just have trouble getting myself into the craft room for any serious length of time.
However, today I received some AWESOME motivation in the mail today. Look at this gorgeous fabric!
Brian's aunt sent this to me to make some fall clothes for Amelia. The two on the left are corduroy, and the one on the right is a cotton. I'm taking any and all links to cute baby clothing patterns!!! I'm thinking at least one long sleeved dress, maybe a peasant top, and maybe a romper with long "pants". Any ideas girls?
I feel a tad bit chagrined when I look at my last post. I was so enthusiastic about sewing my first dress and a matching one for Mia. I washed, dried, and folded the fabric. End of story. Now, it's getting so close to fall which is QUICKLY followed by winter here in Alaska, and I'm debating whether or not to even tackle the dress until next spring when Amelia can actually get a few uses out of her version. Maybe I could make a long sleeved version. I'm also beginning to think my fabric would make AMAZINGLY cute pajama shorts... hmm.... or a nightie... hmmm again.
I have made a couple of things here and there. I whipped this changing pad cover and wipes case up for a dear friend.
I made a soft, taggie ball for Miss Amelia, which resulted in two more being made for sweet friends.
And I have started a pile of 30 cloth wipes which is still waiting to be finished. I have a hooded towel in the works for one of Brian's co-workers who is a proud new Daddy, and I have terry cloth to make a second changing pad cover for Amelia since ours is ALWAYS in the wash, and vinyl is just not so nice on tiny bottoms.
I also have a large number of starred and bookmarked blog tutorials from other amazing mommas that I would also love to "whip up". So as you can see I'm rather enthusiastic about what I'd LIKE to do, I just have trouble getting myself into the craft room for any serious length of time.
However, today I received some AWESOME motivation in the mail today. Look at this gorgeous fabric!
August 5, 2010
100 Things
I am stealing this from my dear friend Tara, who blogs over at Tara in Wonderland. She took it from Trendy Treehouse, found HERE.
All of the things I've accomplished are in bold. Care to join us?
1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a Band- worship team counts right?
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelos David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox- TWICE!
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day
All of the things I've accomplished are in bold. Care to join us?
1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a Band- worship team counts right?
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelos David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox- TWICE!
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day
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