03 Jan New Year’s Resolutions . . .
I usually make some sort of New Year’s Resolution . . . but generally it’s a plan to actually do what I’m always striving for anyway so it’s no different than any other day of the year. This year I found myself torn. One moment I’d try to devise a strategy for keeping the house spotless in spite of the two priceless little bodies I care for and entertain every waking moment. The next I would realize my plan won’t fit in with the conclusion I’ve come to lately about myself and the type of person I want to be. I get way too bent out of shape over things I can’t control. I wish I could be relaxed, completely unconcerned about time constraints and patient with my children all the time. The other day, for instance, I decided to go for a walk right after Camilla’s nap. It was 3:30 and I knew we had maybe an hour of daylight left. Also, Adrian would probably want to nurse at 4:30 or so. I should know that getting two children and myself bundled up for sub-30 degree weather, gathering water bottles, snacks, etc. is more than a five-minute job. But I was rushed and snappy. It wasn’t until I was halfway up the hill, putting Camilla’s gloves back on for the tenth time, that I realized I wasn’t behaving like the mother I wanted to be. Sometimes I wish I could playback a recording of myself, but . . . ouch! I recognized again a truth that I know in my head, but can’t seem to learn in my heart and translate into my behavior. If my house is immaculate, we have delicious healthy meals three times a day, if I’m in perfect physical condition and my writing is critically acclaimed, BUT I hurry my children, snap at my husband, and take for granted the people in my life . . . I have completely missed it. While I would like to achieve a measure of success in the aforementioned areas of my life, my most important resolution this year (and the one to which all others must give way) is to slow down and love my family the way Jesus wants me to. If I don’t do that, none of the rest really matters.
Beth
Posted at 12:42h, 04 JanuaryThanks for this. This is the second time in as many days that I have read something like this. I think God is trying to tell me something by putting this in front of me these days.
Hillary
Posted at 12:42h, 04 JanuaryThe beautiful, mysterious thing is that when we have our priorities in line, everything else just naturally falls into place! But in your hard days, don't forget to have grace on yourself, too.
Great post and a good reminder to myself, too! Happy New Year ~ hugs!
Amanda
Posted at 17:02h, 04 JanuaryOh, so true! I caught myself in the same place the other day. Rushing, snapping a huffing. The good thing is that we caught ourselves. Awareness is the first step, I guess!
Kristina
Posted at 17:05h, 04 JanuaryAmen! I'm right there with you! Trying to focus on quality and fun with the kids w/o letting the house totally fall apart. My MIL bought me a Dr. Laura book for Christmas and it's wonderful to be reminded of just how special this chaotic time w/ our kids is and focus on keeping positive and enjoying them instead of stressed about getting all the chores and errands done.
Susan
Posted at 18:36h, 04 JanuaryThis is a great post, Alison! So where I am too. Thanks for helping me to remember what's important. Love you!
Jim, Peg, Maggie and Claire
Posted at 22:53h, 04 JanuaryThank you for the great reminder! Parenting a 3 year old takes an immense amount of patience and it is so hard not to rush them or snap, esp. when they're being little stinkers. I'll echo what your other friends have said…awareness is more than half the battle. And, be sure to love yourself just as much!
Anonymous
Posted at 22:53h, 04 JanuaryLove your new outlook on life…I pray that you can find those joys and cherish them forever. Without those people in our lives what would life really be?
Love and Prayers,
Lis
Demery
Posted at 22:53h, 04 Januaryinspiring, dear friend! happy new year 🙂
lots of love to you and the two priceless little bodies you care for and entertain every waking moment.
travelingwithbaby
Posted at 21:48h, 05 JanuaryYou're right! God's working on us Mamas. I'll need to re-read your post and mine in about 2 weeks (if not sooner!)
Dolly
Alison
Posted at 09:25h, 06 JanuaryThanks for all your comments, friends! I know I'm going to have to remind myself of my new resolve a zillion times a day. Glad you enjoyed the post.