To All The Tired Mother's Out There

I have to say that I lived in a pretty hazy fog for the first four years of having kids. We had three kids, ages three and under; sometimes I wonder why I complain now!

Last night my two-year-old was up for about three hours in the middle of the night. I must admit that I am NOT used to not sleeping through the night. I felt a little like this lady on the left today.

It doesn't have to be a poor nights sleep that makes us bone-tired. Sometimes life is just daunting.

My beyond-supportive sister sent me this creed below and it couldn't go unshared. Please know you are not alone in whatever deliriously tired phase of life you are in.

The tired mother’s creed

 

1. I shall not judge my house, my kid’s summer activities or my crafting skills by Pinterest’s standards.

 

2. I shall not measure what I’ve accomplished today by the loads of unfolded laundry but by the assurance of deep love I’ve tickled into my kids.

 

3. I shall say “yes” to blanket forts and see past the chaos to the memories we’re building.

 

4. I shall surprise my kids with trips to get ice cream when they’re already in their pajamas.

 

5. I shall not compare myself to other mothers, but find my identity in the God who trusted me with these kids in the first place.

 

6. I shall remember that a messy house at peace is better than an immaculate house tied up in knots.

 

7. I shall play music loudly and teach my kids the joy of wildly uncoordinated dance.

 

8. I shall remind myself that perfect is simply a street sign at the intersection of impossible and frustration in Never Never Land.

 

9. I shall embrace the fact that in becoming a mom I traded perfect for a house full of real. 

 

10. I shall promise to love this body that bore these three children – out loud, especially in front

of my daughter.

 

11. I shall give my other mother friends the gift of guilt-free friendship.

 

12. I shall do my best to admit to my people my “unfine” moments.

 

13. I shall say “sorry” when sorry is necessary.

 

14. I pray God I shall never be too proud, angry or stubborn to ask for my children’s forgiveness.

 

15. I shall make space in my grown up world for goofball moments with my kids.

 

16. I shall love their father and make sure they know I love him.

 

17. I shall model kind words – to kids and grown-ups alike.

 

18. I shall not be intimidated by the inside of my minivan – this season of chip bags, goldfish crackers and discarded socks too shall pass.

 

19. I shall always make time to encourage new moms.

 

20. I shall not resent that last call for kisses and cups of water but remember instead that when I blink they’ll all be in college.

 

From one tired mother to another ~ lisajobaker.com

Enjoy the journey you have been blessed with, love the people in your life, smile :) and remember, 'It's Okay'. 

 

Visit www.itsokaybooks.com to learn more!

 

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