It really is the small things in life that matter. Life has been so very busy lately that it's actually been easier to enjoy the little, small things that we often miss when we become wrapped up in ourselves or the things that (be honest) don't really matter.
I've truly enjoyed the weather the past few days. The sun has been warm but the breeze has been cool and I can't help but be moved by the spirit of change as summer begins to fade and autumn begins to approach. I made a promise to myself a few weeks ago that I needed to find the things that really, really matter and focus on them and forget the rest. And I have. And it's been heaven.
Things like Henry's perfect little smile when he wakes up in the morning and sees my eyes open, or that little laugh when I tickle his sides. Things like a warm tea in the morning to start my day and a devotion in the evening to end my night. We've been twice to the fair and I breathed in deep the smells and the sounds and the sights of the children, mine included, taking in the wonders of new animals so close up and their sounds, rides zooming past, and lights flashing. The world is a magical place when you stop to see it the way they do.
There has been temptation to curl up on the couch and click through the television for a day or focus completely on myself and my projects, but I've found that using my God-given talents in service for my son and my husband has been more rewarding than anything else I could do. It makes me happy to know they are happy and well taken care of. Being a wife and mother is not a small job, but if I focus on the small things I can do as a wife and mother for my son and husband, they can have a BIG impact.
Hi Jenn. You were the post before mine on Five Minute Friday and what sweet words you have to share. I'm glad you're finding such delight in the "small" things because the reward is big! God bless you and your family.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much and thanks for visiting.
DeleteHaving Connor has taught me to take a moment and enjoy the right now. It's been the best lesson ever.
ReplyDeleteNice about me photo and blurb!
Having a baby grow and change so quickly before your eyes will do that to you I think. And thanks. I don't know if I like it yet, and I did it all in paint instead of going here and there, but at least I know how to do it now (thanks to you) if I want to make it a bit more snazzy.
DeleteJenn - I was thinking the same thing about your "About Me" blurb. It's way cool! How did you do that?
DeleteAnd more generally, I wanted to say good for you for focusing on the little moments. But just as a small note of concern from one mama to another: it's ok to take a little time for "your" projects, too. you are an amazing mama (that is obvious) but even the best of us need some recharge time in order to keep being the best for our children and husbands. give yourself grace. don't judge your own need for rest. if that comes in the form of some tv watching or a repainted dresser, never you mind. it's yours, and you need it.
all that being said, you may be doing just fine in the balance department. i just felt the need to encourage you to remember that YOU are important, too.
Emily, Stephanie just did a blog post about how to make one! But I just made mine in paint and then posted in my sidebar as an image.
DeleteThanks for the encouragement! You would not believe how much I struggle to find a balance between doing things for others like my husband and son, and finding time for myself. I really need others to tell me that it's okay to sit around and do nothing from time to time! Haha!
Amen, love these words :)
ReplyDeleteI love this! :) Hugs my friend!
ReplyDeleteWe've been slowing down and enjoying the little things, lately. It's been so nice to just watch my little boy be a little boy.
ReplyDeleteI need to remember this as I head back to school next week. I work myself in to such a stress frenzy sometimes!
ReplyDeleteJust found your blog...love it! I'm your newest follower :) What a great reminder...small things really do make all the difference.
ReplyDelete-Char
http://char-and-jared.blogspot.com/
Thanks for coming by, Char! I'm following you now too!
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