The past several months have been so heart-warming and wonderful. Alternately, there have been many challenging moments filled with frustration and exhaustion. Being a stay-at-home mother to a three-year-old and an infant can be a physical and emotional tornado (as most people can understand). Being home all day, without the trappings of water-cooler chat at the office, or lunch breaks with fun co-workers can be very isolating and lonely. Your sense of autonomy is easily vanquished, and you start to forget the last time you had a funny conversation with a friend or came up with your own witty tidbits to make a peer laugh.

It’s easy to get tired and fall into a bit of a slump. But, in times like this, I take heart knowing that I am living up to my potential as best I can in this role I’ve been blessed with. Sometimes things aren’t always how I want them or would like them to be, but I know I am fulfilling my duties in this season of my life with as much humor, wit, and graciousness as I can. I am grateful. I am honored. When days are long and I’m feeling sloppy (and it’s day 4 of wearing some version of sweatpants and a formula-dribbled t-shirt), I like to remind myself about staying positive and grateful. A trick I use? I tell myself “I get to.” For example, instead of saying “I have to get up and feed the baby,” I say “I GET to get up and feed the baby.” It works on many levels and conditions, and ALWAYS forces me to turn things around by adding more spring to my step.

I have to go to the grocery store…… I GET to go to the grocery store
I have to clean the kitchen…………… I GET to clean the kitchen
I have to change the diaper………….. I GET to change the diaper
I have to go to work……………………. I GET to go to work (for those that do)
I have to make lunch for the kids…… I GET to make lunch for the kids

ADVERTISEMENT

It’s a simple little trick that doesn’t seem like much, but makes a big impact when it’s practiced. I’m no expert at it yet, but I’m trying and I believe it will become second nature before long. See if it can change your day and give you just a little lift too.


Here’s a tender moment of Paige shampooing her brother’s hair. One of life’s rewarding moments to witness.

Mrs. Hide and Seek part 12 of 13

1. Role Play by Mrs. Hide and Seek
2. The Birth by Mrs. Hide and Seek
3. The Birth, Part II by Mrs. Hide and Seek
4. A Nursery for Paige by Mrs. Hide and Seek
5. Big Girl Bed by Mrs. Hide and Seek
6. Little P's Big Girl Room by Mrs. Hide and Seek
7. What You Talkin' Bout? by Mrs. Hide and Seek
8. Playroom by Mrs. Hide and Seek
9. "Free Play" Used To Be Just Play by Mrs. Hide and Seek
10. Antepartum Depression by Mrs. Hide and Seek
11. Noah's Nautical Nest by Mrs. Hide and Seek
12. On Stay-at-Home Motherhood and Positivity by Mrs. Hide and Seek
13. Stay at Home Mom Style and Fashion by Mrs. Hide and Seek