I'll have to go ahead and put the truth out there. Playing on the floor for long periods of time with my children doesn't come natural to me.
I was much better at it with the first child, but as we've added two other children, it has become increasingly harder for me.
I think most moms would agree that instead of celebrating the many things that we are really good at in motherhood, we seem to focus on the few things we wish we could do better.
So, I've got this choice to make. My husband is on a retreat this weekend, and I'm holding down the fort with the kiddos. Sounds like the perfect time to catch up on some much needed play time. Did I mention that it doesn't come natural for me?
We've rented movies from Blockbuster, we've bought way more junk food than 4 people should consume in 3 days, and we're anticipating a trip to a couple of our favorite parks. We've made plans to play together.
I'm going to take just a few extra minutes this weekend and soak up some much needed time with them. We're going to jump on the trampoline, dress every single one of those Polly Pockets in our house, build ginormous Lego cities, and re-arrange that doll house like we're getting paid to do it.
They're growing up fast. Lord, help me to cherish them. Help me not to feel guilty for all the things I wish I could do so much better. Help me not to compare myself to all those moms out there that I admire so, so much, who find it so easy to play with their children for hours on end. And, Lord, fill my heart with gratitude for that gem of a husband that you sent my way, who I don't appreciate near as much as I should until he's gone for a weekend. Protect him and bring him home safely. Amen.
Ok friend, that one brought tears to my eyes!! I was just putting Lilly to bed and thinking the same thing, how guilty I am of not playing with them but expecting them to "go play" so I can get what I want/need to get done. I try to remind myself that they aren't always going to want me to play with them, so I need to soak it up while I can. Thanks for walking the walk with me and putting the truth out there!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, I hope you have a wonderful weekend. I don't find it natural either, but I like you try and we put together puzzles because that is more natural to me and did I mention crafts, we love to make crafts. I hope my girls memories are of what I did do not what didn't do, I pray.
ReplyDeleteCha Cha
I enjoyed reading this post! Found your blog through The Inspired Room.
ReplyDeleteJust stumbled across your blog and I am so glad. I can so relate with what you said. I had to work at playing with my kids, and I thought I was just a bad person. Then I met a lady down the street from me and she voiced about herself what I was experiencing. It helped soooo much. I don't beat up myself any more, but I became aware of that being a weakness and so have worked at strengthening my play skills. Also, the Lord fortunately blessed me with a husband who is strong where I am weak. It sounds like you are married to a wonderful man as well. One last thing, that picture of your daughter at the fence is darling!!! It was nice meeting you. ~
ReplyDeleteI love an honest post from an honest mom!!! I'm mommy to 2 little girls, and what you said is so true of how I feel at times. So silly that we focus more on what we think we aren't the best at, when there is so much good that is still coming through anyway. Thank you for encouraging us moms with your honesty today. Blessings xoxox Janine
ReplyDeleteThank you for being so honest. I think part of the reason why a lot of mothers demand perfection from themselves and others is because women aren't open enough about their real feelings and thoughts on motherhood. I'm sure there are many women that look as though they are 'naturals' but force themselves to work at it as it may not have been easy for them.
ReplyDeleteHave a fantastic weekend with your kiddos! :)
You asked me a question in your comment on my blog and I wasn't sure if you'd be checking back there. Here it is:
Thanks Tara! My husband has lived in Orlando his whole life but I moved here from Toronto, Canada in Sept '06 after we got married. I'm still getting used to life here as well as all of the summer heat! :)
I hope you enjoyed your weekend with your kiddos! I have learned we have to live in the moment! No matter how many dishes or loads of laundry are waiting. The laundry and housework will always be there. Their childhoods will not be! :)
ReplyDeleteKristi
That prayer will be answered! Legos... ahhh... I love legos!
ReplyDeleteLoved reading this post. I am the same way with my little girl who will be 4 soon. My husband is the sweetes daddy ever who spends lots of time playing princess lately. Hope you had a fun weekend and got through it ok on your own.
ReplyDelete