Being the mom in a large family is always a unique balancing act. You don’t have the option of taking a nap when the baby does because you have several other kids that need your attention. In fact nap times becomes the moment when you hurriedly try to get in quality time with the older kids, and if you homeschool nap time is the time you cram all of the academics into the busy day. Generally you find your peace and quiet moments when you are driving the car, taking a shower, or some other almost impossible to share moment.
In fact, for the longest time I kept my devotional book and my Bible on the back of the toilet. This is the life of a mom of many.
I don’t think any of the women I know with large families would complain. Most of us do the same things, cope in the same sort of ways. You find that when everyone is gone…one of those rare moments…you can’t concentrate on anything and end up wasting your precious free time because without the group there is no focus.
At the end of October I become a single mom. With six kids still at home there was even less time for me. Still homeschooling, adding extra writing assignments to make up the difference financially, trying to keep everyone on track….not the easiest thing ever and I found that I had let somethings go with one hand and find alternative methods for relieving stress on the other.
For me baths with a tub full of LUSH bath stuff is a bit extravagant but provides the much needed break and moment of me time I need. I can soak in the fragrant water, feel a little guilty for the expense, and recharge. It is quality time for me. My kids get quality time with me…because I am a quality mom. I only get quality time with me if I actually make time for it.
Too many of us stretch ourselves too thin. We become bitter and angry with our children because they keep us form doing what we want… and yet it isn’t them. It is us. There is always enough time to do the things you really want to. Add yourself to the list. You are worth it, mom.
For me recharging with some quiet time with the Lord, a scented bath, and the occasional coffee at a coffee shop allows me to maintain my individuality and my sense of self. What is it for you?
image: marye audet via picnik.com
Post from: Blisstree