This past week my oldest had state testing. He turned 8 this year so Washington requires him to take some kind of standardized test (there is also an option of assessments but testing was the only option in our budget). We we spent a few hours each day at the district office waiting for him. When the testing was finally done we had a fellowship/lunch to attend and today a class at the library.
I've said it over and over before, the reason I am able to accomplish so much in my home is because I stay AT home, and this week has reinforced that concept!
I am EXHAUSTED! I'm so overwhelmed with the housework that didn't get done, and not thinking about prepping dinner until 3:30 left me frazzled! Dishes piled up in the sink, and I felt like I was constantly running from one task to another and I was not filled with peace and joy as I aim to be! I've been so stressed trying to play catch up and get ready to go to the next thing, I seriously wonder how others do it every day! I remember when that was my daily life, and I praise God for changing my heart and for the blessing of having the ability to stay home with my family every day.
I KNOW that *I* am unable to leave the house every day and still be the calm mom I want to be and do the things that need to be done. For me those things include keeping a tidy home, spending time with my children to educate them and build relationships with them, making them healthy homemade meals and still having time to truly enjoy the little things in life. Even one day a week activities overwhelm me. Because I know this, I do not participate in MOPS, or Womens' Bible study etc. I'd love to do these things, but I recognize that in this season of life I am called to be home. And I do not feel guilty for that. Someday my children will be grown and I will be in a season of life to be involved in other ministries and activities outside my home. But for now the Lord has given me a husband and small children as my ministry and it is important to Him that I fullfill this calling faithfully.
We do occasionally attend the twice a month classes at our local
Estuary, or the Saturday Workshops at
Home Depot or the special programs at the library, because with these kinds of activities we dont have to commit to coming EVERY single week. If we skip a week or two or three it isnt a big deal.
So I wrote this blog to encourage you moms that you dont HAVE to do it ALL, or feel bad that you must say no to some activities and invitations. And for those of you who think I have it all together all the time to be reassured that I do have bad weeks too! So I leave you with a verse that has refreshed my soul MANY times this last week!
Isaiah 40:11
Like a shepherd He will tend His flock,
In His arm He will gather His lambs
And carry them in His bosom;
He will gently lead those with young ones
