Motherhood..and life lately in photos

 "It is a good idea sometimes to think of the importance and dignity of our every-day duties. It keeps them from being so tiresome; besides, others are apt take us at our own valuation."-Laura Ingalls Wilder. 

I often think about the importance of my every-day duties. Even the duties that seem trivial. Each small thing I do for my family is serving them, showing how much I care and investing in what's valuable. Sometimes I feel like I'm not enough as a Mom and Wife. Even on those days I'm reminded of grace and the fact that my children don't need a perfect mom and my husband doesn't need a perfect wife. They just need me. A wife and mom who is available. 

Just last Sunday, I said to all three of my children, "oh man..tomorrow is already Monday!"

One kids response was, "Why are you sad? You don't have to do anything or go to work." 

At first I felt this feeling of self doubt come over me. I hope my children don't think I'm lazy. Those feelings subsided.

If you're like me, you know that statement is a far cry from reality. 

The truth is that I'm sad tomorrow is Monday because yes the never ending chores aare awaiting me..but most importantly, the kids are gone to school and I'll miss them. 

Instead of playing outside all day or having a late family game night, I will be shuffling through car-line and managing homework, study time, and extra curricular activities. 

While I know these things are essential for the growth and maturity of my children- I miss them, the down time and the simple moments that require nothing more than learning on the fly, giggles and fun! 

I was pulling an all nighter with Hayden last weekend and stumbled upon this quote by Charles Stanley:

"Motherhood is a great honor and privilege, yet it is also synonymous with servanthood. Every day women are called upon to selflessly meet the needs of their families. Whether they are awake at night nursing a baby, spending their time and money on less-than-grateful teenagers, or preparing meals, moms continuously put others before themselves."

I've always considered motherhood a gift and a privilege. There's this unexplainable bond you have with your children even when they aren't biologically yours. I believe God gives us this gift as mothers. I believe he gives us the gift of being alert and available for our "little's" in the wee hours of the morning when our bodies should be physically exhausted to remind us that He is enough, but also as a reminder that our greatest honor is in serving our families. 

As for the kiddo who thinks I have nothing to do tomorrow and the rest of the week.. I smile and say, "of course I have lots to do!" And leave it at that. I would much rather teach them by example than by my words. One of these days, through no explanation of mine, they'll understand how their (and Daddy's) breakfast appears on the table, how their clothes get cleaned and hung up, how groceries magically appear in the pantry, etc. 

As for me, I'll keep remembering that my work at home is a privilege. There is dignity in the every-day duties of motherhood. In motherhood there's servanthood. In servanthood there's humble work. In humble work we find our identity in Christ. 

In other news, I was interviewed for a story on blended families and photographed with my sweet kiddos for a local magazine. I can't wait to share all the details with you all!