I’m a checklist type of person. Before starting my week, I usually write a list of things that I’d like to get done. Things on my list include housework, making appointments, weekly dinner menus, and other “homemaker” type things. I feel a great sense of accomplishment with each check mark I make.
But you know what? For the last two months since I went from having one child to three, there have only been a handful of times when I’ve been able to stay on top of such lists. While I’ve been able to keep our house somewhat decent, the deep down cleaning only gets done when my mom comes to town. And laundry? For the life of me I cannot stay on top of it! My mom or mother-in-law bail me out there too, usually doing 10 or 11 loads in the span of a couple days. Sometimes I get frustrated with myself because I feel like there are never enough hours in a day. No matter how fast I go, I just can’t do it all.
BUT, despite feeling overwhelmed at times, I am so incredibly grateful for the chaos. God is teaching me how to sort out what is important. I may not have time to be a spotless homemaker, but I DO have time to love on my littles. I have these precious few moments and years to watch them intently as they develop into little people. I only get to rock my baby girls for a few months, and I only get to giggle with Baylen about the silliest things for a little while until he’s too cool for it. Someday my house will have a chance to be perfectly organized, but sadly that probably means my kiddos will be all grown up.
Yes, my checklists look a little different these days. My family comes first, and if I get to the other things, it’s just an added bonus. My kids have my heart and my time. Hanging with them is a million times more rewarding than checking off to-dos.
Do you ever feel like life is so crazy and there just isn’t enough time to get it all done? Let’s remember to seek the Lord on a daily basis and ask HIM what He wants us to do that day. When our priorities match up with His, peace and blessings overflow.
May your days be filled with things that are truly important!
Love,
Amber
P.S. For more reflections on parenthood and life, follow us on Facebook (Hun Let’s Run) and on Instagram: @ambermariekuiper and @jakekuiper! We’d also love for you to subscribe to our Hun, Let’s Run Podcast! For more info about joining our fitness community as a customer or coach, please email us at amber@mommysmetime.com!
8 Comments
You are so right! Our kiddos grow so fast. It’s okay to leave a pile of laundry sitting and our to-do lists unchecked once in a while. And it sounds like you are extra busy these days with those new baby girls! Congrats on your new additions and enjoy every minute!
Thanks for your affirming words, Heather! Glad you feel the same way!
I could not agree more! I felt like this daily when Elias was born and am sure it will surface again when baby #2 comes in Sept.
thanks for the reminder Amber!
Thanks for your affirming words, Liz! I’m so excited for you and Baby 2 coming in a few months! It is so precious to watch Baylen love his sisters and I’m sure you will have the same joy watching Elias! 🙂
I so struggle with this! I try so hard to focus my attention on my son but get side tracked by thinking about cleaning, blogging, working out, cooking etc. I feel so bad when I do this and it’s been an ongoing struggle since he was born but I think the fact that I’m aware of it and really do try to give him my undivided attention is a good thing. It might not always happen but I think he’s okay 🙂
Thanks for your words, Giselle. It can be so tricky to balance everything, and make time for self care while also taking care of little ones. For me, blogging is my me time and such a good outlet and connection to other mommies, and I definitely know I need it to be a good mommy. I agree with you that its okay if the attention isn’t always on them. It’s good for them to remember from time to time that life is not ALL about them! 🙂
Another wonderful post! I think all of us mommies struggle with this. I have learned when I get home at night just to let it go and get done what I can after they are in bed and my workout is complete. I might not have a spotless house but if my kids are happy and loved that is what matters and makes me a successful mommy 🙂
I love your words Amber! I totally agree that being a successful mom means LOVING on your kids whenever you get a chance! I’m also glad I’m not the only one who doesn’t have a spotless house. 😉