Victories In Mothering

READY8“I looked on child-rearing not only as a work of love and duty but as a profession that was fully as interesting and challenging as any honorable profession in the world and one that demanded the best that I could bring it.” ~ Rose Kennedy AIM8 Being a mom is rewarding, but it is a tough job too. Getting paid in hugs and kisses some days just isn’t the salary you expected. Even our best intentions can be completely twisted and turned around in an instant. Are you good at going with the flow and rolling with the punches? Better buckle up and get ready! If you haven’t experienced the thrill of the adventure yet, you’re in for a wild ride! :) Because being a mom requires so much of our treasured time, our talents and personal space often get pushed into the Twilight Zone. If you have felt like you’re stuck in another dimension, you are NOT alone. Many of us moms are stuck in that same dimension of chaos! So, how do we check ourselves back into reality? For starters, we need to stop focusing on all the WRONGS we are doing and start recognizing all the RIGHTS. Negative self-talk does so much damage to our well-being and our self confidence. God created you in His image to be loved and to give love away. Let’s start speaking truth into our lives and regain that inborn God-confidence He designed just for us. If you need some help discovering your victories as a mom, here are some great ways to rethink your day to day actions and conversations with yourself: You are using your body to…grow a miracle; feed and nurture your infants; snuggle with and comfort your older children. You are using your hands to… play fun games; teach and educate with puzzles; bathe and dress your children, offer hugs of approval and applause for major accomplishments. You are using your creativity and talents to…make healthy and interesting meals for your family; bring home additional money to contribute to the budget; entertain your children when you’re stuck in the house for a snowy or rainy day. You are using your brain to…outwit toddler temper tantrums; encourage successful potty training transitions; find ways to instill good morals and values in the minds of your children and encourage and support life-changing decisions. You are using your personality to…find humor in everyday events; meet new moms and form meaningful friendships; continue to attract your spouse to the woman he has loved since you dated. You are using your heart to…boldly LOVE like you’ve never loved before…yes, it’s possible. You are using your spirit to…invite God’s presence, plan, purpose and protection over yourself, your marriage and your children’s lives. Galatians 6:9 says “So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up.” Mom-friends, don’t lose yourself in the negativity of the Twilight Zone. Lift yourself up by reminding yourself of all the VICTORIOUS things you are accomplishing every single day. Down the road, you WILL reap a harvest of blessings as you witness the successes of your children and all their accomplishments. And what a huge victory dance you will do that day! FIRE!8 Pour yourself a cup of coffee or tea and grab a photo album or scrapbook. Enjoy a quiet walk down memory lane reminiscing about your children. For a moment, forget the piles of laundry that need washed and folded and remind yourself what a GREAT job you are doing as a mom. Yay, you! Be Excellent! Lori