I love the way it feels when the seasons change. Especially the arrival of spring and autumn. After a period of weather that has been uncomfortable outside, we go into a time when the outdoor temperatures feel just perfect. It is always so welcome and exciting!
Right now I am experiencing another change of seasons, but it has nothing to do with the weather. My weekend getaway really awakened in me the sense of needing to find my way back to myself, and the realization that it is time to do so. I saw that everyone can get along without me just fine for a little while, and I saw how good it made me feel to have some time to myself. Which in turn makes me a much better mom because I am refreshed and looking forward to seeing them again.
There are so many things that have been waiting patiently inside of me- looking for the right conditions in which to re-surface. Pictures, art, hand crafted objects- as well as a desire to talk with women and be involved in the birthing community. These things have taken a back seat while I have been focused on the constant demands of mothering children in an attached sort of way. But it is time to stop ignoring those urges to create and to connect out in the world- it is time for me to find my way back to MYSELF.
So I am setting some time aside and setting some goals. I will be making and creating and connecting. I'm going to wait a bit longer to share details here, while I work out all the kinks- but I am going to start selling some of the things I make. There is much to work out so I'll wait to see what happens. But it feels really good to be going into this new season in my life.
Good for you! It is always so hard for us moms to take a little bit of time away from family to take care of ourselves. I too struggle with this - I am glad (and taking inspiration from you) that you are in a position to take time out for yourself.
ReplyDeleteLemme know if you ever get into making/selling longies and/or Klean Kanteen kozies! I'll be a customer! :) You make beautiful work and yep... I agree that taking time for "mommy time" is important. Good luck with it all.... oh, have you ever thought of being either a doula or midwife?
ReplyDeleteI will definitely be involved with the birthing community- not sure if/when an actual position like doula or midwife will be possible time-wise, but it's something to keep in mind for sure!
ReplyDeleteLe Leche League might be a good start? Or birthing education maybe?
ReplyDeleteSounds great! You need that time! You are a talented and gifted wife, Mom and creative artist. Your dedication, energy and faithfulness to Jason and those fantastic kids is remarkable. I'm very proud of you and the wonderful Grandkids you and Jason have given us--and the loving home you two have created for them. I have seen and know you have many spiritual gifts too and I pray and hope you will discover more of them, and let those wonderful gifts grow too. Forgive me if I sound "preachy" I just wanted to remind you of the spiritual life journey you and God are living too. Everything you and Jason have is His blessing and love upon your life. I'm so glad that we all are Christians and have His blessing on all of us. Lyt! Pops
ReplyDeleteoh sister, i so hear what you are saying. i am just starting the journey to finding myself again. it is exciting to be on that path but i find it also overwhelming. i was making my own lists and prioritizing today. i really think we should go out to dinner soon ;)
ReplyDeletei would love to meet you one day.
In response to your question,
ReplyDeleteI only used the new pool a hand full of times. I couldn't go outside during the really hot parts of the day all summer because the extreme heat irritated my clotting issues. The splenic vein/ portal vein clot got worse after I'd sat in the morning sun for about an hour for a ceremony....
My mother-in-law took the kids to the pool everyday while I was gone having surgery. I went once (but not in the pool, stitches you know) when I got home before she left.
One day we biked over there (oh, Charlotte was so mad) and we discovered it was closed due to contamination.
It's closed now for the season, but I took the kids one more time before they closed it. Kind of sad we couldn't used it more, but it was really nice to see it completed and to get to use it.
Your new diggs are awesome!