It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Or so the song claims. I tend to agree, but also know that such expectation can often leave us wanting more. The wonder and magic of the season can get lost amid the running around, the shopping, the parties, the traveling. Not to mention wrestling with emotional disappointments, family drama, and personal loss. With so much riding on this season it is easy to let it drag us down when it seems like it should pick us up.
In a time when we are all encouraged to practice self-care, whether as mothers, fathers, single, married, older, or younger, we are simultaneously pressured to find that nebulous ‘thing’ that helps each of us capture what will restore our weary souls. Then, if we do discover it, we must find a way to incorporate it into our lives. This task becomes all the more difficult when what feeds us is an allusive concept as easy to grasp as the fog on a rainy day.
Six months ago today, my husband and I welcomed our baby boy into our lives. That day changed many things, as new babies do, but it also opened the door for much self-learning. The past 184 days have held challenge and joy, weakness and strength. Motherhood isn’t for the faint of heart, but the smile on my little guy’s face makes it all worth it.
This past week, I returned to work after my maternity leave. It’s a juggling act, as all moms know, but I love my job and I’m excited to be back at it. With being a working mom fresh on my plate, I thought I’d write down a few thoughts on the subject.
This past year has been one of the biggest adventures of my life. It’s held ups and downs, twists and turns, good fortune and unexpected challenges. Most of all, it has all revolved around becoming a mom.
Sunday is Mother’s Day. Before you drop what you’re doing to scramble for a card, gift, or brunch reservation, think about why.