Wednesday, August 28, 2013

My Life as a Mom

My sister in-law posted this week about a conference she attended addressing the need for women to write down their story. Specifically, more introspective insights on life and less the day-to day activities. If we truly value our life, then we need to record it in order for it to be remembered. I have been thinking a lot about this lately, and thought that this week would be good to time to record since Mike has been gone, leaving me on full-time parent duty. I was nervous about him leaving because I dread the late afternoon/early evenings. By that point in the day, we have already gone to the park, played with friends, read 20 books, and people are busy with making dinner and being with husbands when they get home. Mike usually comes home and plays with Maggie then, but with him gone, what was I going to do?

This week is halfway over and everything has gone smooth so far (knock on wood). What I thought would drag on, has actually turned into great bonding times. Being a good mom means sacrifice; I heard this many times, but it has a new meaning this week. I knew that being a mom would mean having a messier house, hair in a ponytail, and lack of free time, but the real sacrifice comes in changing my perspective to fit hers. I've always played in the sandbox or blown bubbles, but I usually check the time every three minutes to see when Mike was coming home to take over. Since there is no parent swapping, no point in looking at the watch, so I might as well enjoy it. And I have. Life is more satisfying when I can enjoy it as Maggie does. I have been amazed how quickly our evenings past when I love it as she does.

I would never want to be a single parent. This week has reinforced the need of a father and mother in raising a child. Sometimes Maggie wakes up from her nap, sees the picture of Mike, and starts whimpering for dada. It can be such a precious moment, but it does break my heart. Only three more days until he gets back.

*List of all the things we have done already this week to keep us busy and not think about Mike being gone too much:
feed the ducks, gone for walks, played at the park, sandbox, bubbles, Jungle book music video, FHE, scripture study, read books, baths, exercise, library, pet store, grocery shopping, lunch at chic-fila, science museum, Joann's, swimming, baked cookies, lesson with the missionaries, talked with family on the phone, skyped with Mike, playgroup, play date with friend, play area at mall, more sandbox, more books, and even more bubbles. And it's only Wednesday.

2 comments:

Rachel & Darrin said...

I know exactly how you feel. Darrin was out of town all last week and with two kids I felt exhausted by the end of each day. Having dad come home each night is so crucial for both mom and the kids! I hope the rest of the week goes by quickly for you and you get to have more moments like you mentioned!

Jodi said...

i love this. i find myself constantly checking the clock too and am trying to enjoy the moments more than wanting them to pass. i love a good break too though.