Random Weekend Thoughts

ONE

 We have a neighbor girl who knocks on our door several times a day now that it is summer.  She wants to play, but unfortunately she always makes an appearance at inopportune times...usually around dinner time, quiet time or bed time.  It is hard not to be annoyed.  I have been praying for patience for my children, and now here is an opportunity for me to practice and display patience.

Taking a step back, there is yet another lesson or parallel.  No matter how many times I "knock" on God's door and go to Him with concerns or thoughts, He never gets annoyed with me.  It is never the wrong time for God. He is always available and always willing to listen.

TWO

Aaron and I had a leisurely anniversary breakfast yesterday with Silas.  The big kids were with K & D - again. (THANK YOU!!) Another mom came in to the restaurant with her new baby. This may sound weird, but I could tell that she still had pregnancy weight leftover and you know what? She looked beautiful. In a way I felt like I was looking in the mirror. Of course I am not back to my normal size, but I still look great and I had a baby 4 weeks ago!  I may be rounder and fuller, but my son is my favorite accessory now.  Sometimes seeing ourselves as others see us is difficult.  We are so hard on ourselves, but when I saw this other beautiful mama, I saw myself too.  What a gift!

THREE

I had the privilege of being interviewed for research on birth experiences.  I was asked about what factors helped and hindered me during my pregnancy, birth, and now postpartum.  As a counselor, I know the power of simply sharing your story, but yesterday I was the one sharing my story. And it was empowering sharing my experiences...and it was a wonderful reminder of how blessed I am to have such amazing support in my husband, friends and community. The adjustment to 3 kids has been so smooth as a result of support.  I couldn't have made it this last month without my sister, friends, neighbors, and husband.  I am one grateful girl!

I think another thing that has helped in this adjustment, is the fact that we are going on a road trip tomorrow.  We are loading up our new gold mini van and driving as a family of 5 to South Dakota for our annual 4th of July hoop-la. Knowing that we will be seeing family, the 5 of us will be together without work and chores to occupy our time, and that my kids are going to have a blast has made the last few weeks of resting at home and watching more TV than usual worth it!  Now I better get packing!

SOUTH DAKOTA OR BUST, BABY!!