This is one of those pictures I've only sent to family.  Why?  Embarassment and worry.  I figured I'd look like a horrible mom to anyone who saw this picture of my baby covered in "cauliflower" (that is what Gordon calls batting).

Silly, isn't it?  Especially since the friends and family who I know will be reading this (and probably any other curious eyes that happen upon this blog) have confessed having kids that draw on walls, cut holes in linens, jump and climb on and off of furniture,. . . 

Saturday I read this post about mommy guilt by Jenna at Choosing Home. It was an immidiate encouragement, and it reminded me of a few other blog postings and articles I've read recently on the subject of being yourself and not being ashamed.

I call myself "Real Momma" because I'd like to think I'm open and honest with others about my struggles (and victories) as a Christian, a wife, a mother, a homemaker, and a woman.  I want to be this way as an encouragement to others -- as a way to let other women know that they aren't that bad, they are just normal, they are who God made them to be. . . I'M who God made ME to be.  Unfortunately, as Jenna points out, I apologize all too often.  Not in the sense of, "Sorry, all, I feed my kids too much sugar, let them watch way too much TV, don't exercise,. . ."  What I do tend to do is EXCUSE.  And, I suppose, excuses are the most passive form of apologies.

So, check out these blog postings and articles, be encouraged, figure out who you are (not what someone or everyone else seems to be telling you you ought to be), and STOP MAKING EXCUSES (aka apologizing). 

KEEP IT REAL!

Lightening the Load of Motherhood by Jenna @ Choosing Home

Dealing with Opposition by Deputy Headmistress @ The Common Room

Mothering Free by Evangeline Johnson @ Above Rubies

Being Moderate in an All or Nothing Kind of World by Lindsey @ Enjoy the Journey

Homemaking on Purpose by Deputy Headmistress @ The Common Room