Simpler Things

I feel behind in alot of things right now. I’m at a loss as to where the day goes.
Most days I feel like I live in 10 minute increments of snacks, stories, diaper changes, errands, laundry, dishes, picking up …
Is this what being a stay at home mom is like?
A blur of routine and to do lists.
Late nights and early mornings.
Dirty hair and yoga pants.

I’m also working from home doing some long-term consulting – so really, I’m a work at home mom with no childcare.
Not easy.
I have some big projects on my plate and in order to stay sane I’m choosing to say “no” to everything that isn’t directly family related or work related (which is family related since it helps keep the budget in the black).

Part of me is kind of excited to cut out some busyness. I really like being at home. Days in pajamas where I smell crockpot meals and hear laundry spinning. It give me an odd sense of accomplishment. I feel like I’m home on the prairie.

It’s difficult to choose simpler things.
It’s hard to say no to things I want to do.

But, for my family’s sake and mine – it’s the right thing to do now. I need to take some time to re-prioritize and organize. I often worry that the peak of my life is behind me – my education, career, travels, and volunteering. I used to do everything and I loved it. The high of a packed calendar with meetings and projects and social events. Now, I feel more like a 25 year old frump with nothing new in sight. I know that isn’t true – it’s just how it feels some days.

In reality I’m caring for my family – the biggest blessing I could ever hope for. I spend every day with Jemma — exploring life, insuring her health and happiness, and basking in snuggles and her latest trick, blowing kisses :) I welcome Dominic home with a warm meal and a happy home (not always clean, but always happy). This is a rich season of my life!

So, as I focus more on home don’t be surprised if you hear from me less, take a few days to respond to emails, or am generally unavailable. It’s not that I’m completely absent or don’t want to participate, I’m just simplifying life by focusing on what really matters.