Lately, I've not been feeling very successful at anything. I'm struggling to keep the household running and feeling inadequate as a wife and mom. It's been compounded by the fact that I have been sick for two weeks (I'm finally feeling better). The adjustment from two to three while awesome has been very challenging. Ty is a content baby for the most part and the older boys adore him it's just that I don't have enough arms, I'm exhausted, and I feel I'm being pulled in a million directions never making everyone happy. I recognize that we have a seven week old (I wouldn't change that for the world - we adore him!) and that we had very little time to prepare for his arrival but I still feel discouraged with the disorganization, lack of motivation, and general tiredness.
Yesterday, I ventured out with all the boys because we needed a birthday gift for last night as well as formula and other baby things. It took me most of the day to be up for this trip (the last one of this sort was rather disasterous) but finally we headed out. As I talked with the boys in the store and we picked gifts, a woman stopped me and said, "You are so patient with your kids. You are such a great mom and I just have to tell you that." I nearly cried as I thanked her and expressed my love for my children. I relate this not to say I'm a great mom - I'm so far from patient at times - but rather to note that God works in mysterious ways. This stranger made my day and encouraged me during a difficult time. It was just what I needed.
My house is not cleaner and I'm still tired but I am challenged once again to selflessly love my children and husband, meet their needs, and to pray daily for strength beyond what seems possible. I truly love being a wife and mom to my men and I desperately needed this reminder. There is light at the end of the tunnel. So thank you to the kind lady in Target for encouraging my heart today - you probably had no idea how much it blessed me.
12 comments:
God is good to send us those encouragements when we need them. I hope things get easier soon for you -- maybe after all the weddings, and when Ty turns 3 months and sleeps more. :) you've had more on your plate than most moms with newborns.
Sorry you are feeling so discouraged lately. Every time I come to your blog you amaze me with how you care for your family. Even with a seven week old! Being tired has a way of making is feel like we aren't quite doing what we should. But you are doing wonderful.
What a sweet happening... It reminds me that I need to take my time more often and offer words of encouragement and kindness. You simply never know when you might say the one thing the other person needs to hear.
I'm a firm believer that God uses people to tell us what we need to hear at certain times or to help us through a difficult sitation. Many, many times complete strangers have helped me with something and probably not even realized that they did. I only hope that I can do the same for other people.
You'll get through this, I know you will.
hang in there! I guess we all have our struggles with the phases in life we are currently in, but almost always, the challenges and frustrations pale in comparison to the wonderful joys! Indeed God is good and it's encouraging to see it tangibly through the words of another.
love you.
Girl, I completely understand where you are coming from. I wish I was an octopus...I think 8 hands may be enough. I want you to know how inspired I am by you. I love your cooking tips and your attitude in general brings a smilt to my face. We will make it through this!!!
Yes, I agree with Heather. God is good to send these encouragements. If it makes you feel any better. I feel EXACTLY the same as you (and you have one more!) Yesterday, after giving Bella her bath and trying to get dinner ready, she spit up all over her and me. You know those moments where you just feel like crying? well that was it. We're both kind of still in the weeds and it will get easier :)
Alaina, you are a fantastic mom. Just reading your blog I know the love you have for your family. God has blessed you with amazing gifts because He knows you can handle it.
HUGS,
Kim
Hey - Please know I am here if you ever need some down time. I could come over on a Sat. or Sunday and give you a nice long nap? I have the utmost respect for you - and your family. You are an amazing mom and wife, but first and most importantly - an amazing servant to Christ. You are in my prayers.
I can only imagine how much busier it is with three kids. Hang in there! You are doing a great job! I am so glad that you ran into the nice lady at Target! It must have made your day!
You are an inspiration to many!! What a fabulous mom and fabulous woman! I am proud to know you!!
Whenever my life seems overwhelming, it always seems that you or Catherine post something or comment on a post I have written that is exactly what I have needed to lift me up or remind me that even through challenges there is a way to see God working through. You are an AWESOME mom, and a great role model for those of us who waiver in faith.
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