1) I quit my job. I know in my heart it was the right thing to do. I quit in June and its now December. Since then I found that I work harder and longer at home than at any job I have EVER done. Physically and mentally challenging, I get up before the kids and go to bed long after they do. The rewards are priceless and unmeasurable. The day could be just hectic, filled with tears and time-outs, and Eva could take my hand as I walk down the hall, her tiny fingers in my hand puts me instantly at peace. I look at my kids and I am in awe. They are mine, they carry my genetics. I am theirs, I carried them, I have cared and loved them since the beginning. A responsibility that I cherish every day. I hope that I don't have to return to work. My heart breaks at the thought of leaving them every day. Now, Im not saying that my life is roses, sunshine and butterflies, what I am saying is that, they are most important and I hope they feel my love.
2) Don't focus on your past, but don't look too far in the future either. If you look back you miss whats coming. If your looking forward you miss what you already have. Take every day as a gift. Sure you have days that you want to re-do...but at the end of the day, take a look around, appreciate what you have, not what you DON'T have.
3) I learned that I need to make time for myself. I've been told ( very gently, of course) that the "frumpy" look isn't good on me. If Im not leaving the house and we have no visitors I see no reason to get dressed. I am perfectly happy in my house pants. I become so consumed in my daily routine that by the time I realize, its MY turn to get dressed its well past noon. Heck, by then the day is on it way to being over and I know that I wont stay clean...why bother? :) No-I will force myself in 2011 to get up and out of my house pants! Onward to reclaiming ME!
4) Picking up toys all day long is backbreaking and not fun. So I've decided, to let them play! Play! Play! Play! Now, before bedtime we have a new routine of cleaning up ALL toys. This is easier on me and more fun for them!
5) Child proof lids mean nothing to my kids. Eva was enjoying watching the pink pepto bismol liquid swish around. Seconds later, there is pepto all over the carpet and on my bedspread. I used many carpet cleaners and now I have a lovely pink stain next to my bed. I have no idea how she got it open.
6) Make time for family-spouse/bf/gf/mom/dad etc. My husband works so hard, so that I don't have to. Between kids, work, laundry and life you can forget you have each other. If your fortunate to have special people in your life, make sure you remind them that they are.
I've probably missed alot of things that I've "learned", but I learn something new every day. Take the time to laugh at yourself. I personally love to dance, and sing with my hairbrush. No joke. It puts a smile on my face and the kids think its pretty funny too! I hope in 2011 you find your dream and make it come true!
You'll hear more from me for sure...
