I have started to see life from September to June. With school age children the school years are a whole new year scope of their own now. We still have almost a month of school left but it has me reflecting on the year. This year had its ups and downs but it was still so much better than last year. But last year's difficulties taught me a lot and for that I am grateful.
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Last school year was a challenging year for me. As a way of coping and working through things I started journaling again. It was so helpful. Here are some highlights from my journal about slowing down in mothering that I wanted to share.
We made it! Last day of school! What a year! Two new schools. Getting everyone to school on time with a newborn. Crazy nap schedules around school drop off and pick ups. Toddler tantrums in the middle of the parking lot. This year was a lot. It was hard. I had to say no to a lot of good things to put my family and sanity first. We overcame. And most importantly we bonded.
I watched my children grow. And it was in choosing to slow down, live with less, letting go, and surrendering that I've come out the other side better for it. I've learned to be more patient and present - only as a result of my own failing.
I'm so hopeful for this next season to come. I've had to learn the hard way - to stop and reprioritize to focus on what is important. And in return I found the life I was looking for. It doesn't just happen. It took discipline and knowing myself better. To not let the pressures of others seep in. But to be true to myself and our family's deepest values.
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I still expect the feel of productivity to define my days even though I no longer have responsibilities outside of the home.
"I would make a list of all the things I didn't do. My friend says - I make a list of all the things I did do." - Sarah, Clover Lane
No matter what hopes I had for the day - being available and there for my children is most important. I'm trying to not let productivity be the measure of my day.
Sometimes it just takes TIME to find a rhythm. The kids fight, whine, and can be grumpy. And while training and discipline all help - sometimes just time, sitting together, or finding an activity is the answer. So often they grumble when I make them go outside or focus on a play task. It may take a minute but eventually they settle in. So much of mothering requires patience and perseverance. Point them in the right direction and let time work itself out.
"Unstructured play time is one of the best things we can give our kids." - The Minimal Mom
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