Well friends, it’s safe to say that it’s been a week around these parts. I don’t share that to seek sympathy or encouragement, but something tells me that perhaps some of you other moms have had one of those weeks, too?
This week what I thought was a nasty cold or strange sickness for Ainsley turned out to be two year old molars coming in, which should also be known as the worst teething we’ve ever experienced. I’m not sure “teething” really captures the pain, discomfort and volatility that we’ve experienced over the past week. There’s been very little sleep, and the sleep we did get was fragmented and restless. Days have been long, the crying and screaming spells have been loud and as timing would have it, we’ve had something every evening this week.
By the time last night rolled around, I was reeling. Exhausted and more than anything, emotionally drained from trying to muster up every last ounce of patience and energy I had to offer Ainsley. And then, 10 minutes before our baby shower guests walked in the door, Ainsley choked on all her drool and puked up her bedtime milk all over the kitchen floor. The good news is that at that point it had been such a week that I couldn’t help but just sort of shrug, clean it up and move forward rather than get frustrated or cry. #brightside
I would be lying, however, if I didn’t admit that the week took it’s toll on my mental game. Maybe the more accurate way to put that is the week took a toll on my spiritual game. By the time yesterday rolled around I was believing all the lies that so quickly creep in.
Me? Fit for motherhood? Hardly!
If I am having such a hard time handling one child, how in the word am I worthy to have two?
Joe has so much more patience for Ainsley than I do. I’m such an inferior parent.
The lies, friends, were washing over me quicker than I could ward them off. It’s times like these that I’m thankful for a few things.
First, for a much needed distraction. That my husband could cuddle, rock and put Ainsley to bed while I got away from mothering to host a baby shower for a friend who is expecting twins. Do you ever find you just need to “reset” your thinking by getting out of your own head for an hour or two? Sometimes when I’m deep in it, I need a little re-set time before I can even process truth and differentiate the truth from the lies and guilt.
Second, for a serious helping of truth and a reminder of God’s grace to all of us, tired and weary moms included. That although I’m woefully inadequate to be a perfect parent, or even a good one sometimes, my weakness serves to point to God’s power and strength within me. (2 Cor. 12:9)
If you’re in the same boat with me, feeling weary and a little beat down from the week, I would highly recommend some of the resources that I’ve shared below for a hefty serving of truth going into the weekend!
A Prayer for the Mom Who is Worn // The Gospel Coalition
Joy in Motherhood // Risen Motherhood Podcast
10 Deeply Honest and Encouraging Posts for Weary Moms // Devotional Family
Love and joy to you, my mom friends! Praying that your spirit will be renewed as you go into the weekend.
Madison