I have heard it said again and again that it takes a village to raise a child. This month I have learned the truth in that expression. We are in a new season of life in our home! In May we had one child in school and our life was very cut and dry in the box. This year we have one child in school all day. One child in preschool half days, three days a week. A toddler I am trying to potty train (pray for me!). And, my husband started Bible college last month. That leaves me. Sitting on the couch....eating bon bons....right?!?
The new season has thrown my usually scheduled self for a spin. My planner - aka my brain - has been lost more times than once in the shuffle of my days. My menus have gone from being prepped and ready to "Oh my gosh it's dinner time!!". But, I have been so very blessed by five women in my life whoare not only my best friends, but who have also earned the term "My Village". As they have been at my house drinking coffee and having play dates, I have let them know that I don't have it all together. I have let them see the inside of my heart. The places where my insecurities lie. You know what, they didn't laugh at me. They didn't run in horror. They nodded, hugged me, and immediately made a plan to help me. These ladies aren't all in the same season of life I am in, but they have become quite a backbone for me. They have stepped in and watched my children so I could get a quick errand ran, told me to take a shower and watched my kids while I did. Last week they even surprised me with a "day off", including Starbucks, a massage, and dinner made for me. This is what we do. We have to take care of each other.
Mamas if you have a close friend or are blessed enough to have a close group of friends, be open with them and let them know that sometimes you aren't supermom. It is scary to be so vulnerable, but it also puts you in a position to receive help.
John Wilmot said "before I married, I had three theories about raising children and no children. Now, I have three children and no theories". I think that says it pretty well. It's okay if all of your expertise on raising children has been tossed out the window. It's okay if you say "I don't know what to do" and throw your hands up in exasperation. But, find somebody who can come along side you and help you in this amazing journey of motherhood.
You can do it mama!
XOXO,
Rebecca
