We promised Hyrum a trip to the beach during Bry's break. The poor kid was getting very frustrated when we kept stopping at old buildings and museums. We were constantly diverting his attention by challenging him to find "wild animals". He'd say, "Renember Daddy, when you see a wild animal, point and scweam."
We were elated and surprised when we accidentally came upon a darling little beach in Yorktown. Hyrum was satisfied, and we didn't have to drive another hour to Virginia Beach- win, win.
It was a terrific break. It's so amazing to have Bry home all day to play and help. Now it's back to the old school grindstone again. Bry is the Class President so he's a little extra busy, but I'm proud of him. He's a great leader. We are becoming more accustomed to the strenuous schedule. I have grown so much in the short time that we've been here. Sometimes I feel like being away from dear home and family is like "life boot camp". I've tried to stop being a "victim" and start choosing happiness. I'm not saying that some days aren't difficult, but it's not worth complaining and grumbling. It's so easy to focus on the negatives, but I'm avoiding that as much as possible. Scripture study, fervent and constant prayer, exercise, music, books, creativity, and laughing have become my most important allies against despair and depression.
My outlook on motherhood has completely changed too. Being a mom was the only thing I ever wanted to do. I used to pretend like I had other aspirations, but deep inside I only wanted to be a mommy. That's why I was so stunned when it didn't come completely natural to me. I used to feel so trapped and claustrophobic. But recently I realized that I'm not stuck here, I could walk out at any time. For some reason the realization was so liberating. I'm staying at home because I think it's what's best for my family. I have no boss or paycheck or quarterly evaluation or any substantial way to measure how well I'm doing- maybe that's why motherhood is so difficult. It is a real sacrifice. I still have so many goals and dreams that either need to be put off or just stretched out over time- but who said sacrifice can't be fun too?
9 comments:
Looks like you guys had tons of fun! I love the idea of a "hidden Beach". One of these days we all need to take a beach adventure together.
Your fam is sooo cute! Glad you guys got to have a vacation together--looks like a lot of fun. Not getting any recognition is definitely one of the hard parts of being a mom, but I sincerely think you are doing a fabulous job--you are so sweet and patient with them, but also don't let them get away with stuff they shouldn't. You get so much done in a day, I truly admire you--hope we can play sometime soon! :)
What a cute family you have! Bry gets a week off in June and 3 weeks in Sep. I can't wait! We are going to DC in June! I wish our hubbys were on the same schedule. We really need to work something out to get together, we would love to see you guys.
I feel the same way you do in this post. You said it all.
Erin... I would think you were reading out of my journal if I didn't know better. You so articulately put my feelings on your blog. I'm glad to know I am not the only one who feels like that sometimes. Thanks for sharing. Call me anytime, we really need to get together.
Beautiful pictures! You know how a mother feels for sure but you are so right...sacrifice can be fun and oh so worth it!
So fun you found that hidden little beach. Where do you find those ADORABLE sun hats for Ivy? I really appreciated your post about your feelings of home sickness and the stresses of parenthood. You are such an example to me and you go girl for over coming those feelings. I think all of us moms would all be surprised to know we all feel like that from time to time. Call me anytime and we can lift each other up:) Congrats to Bryan on being Class President! You guys are both so AWESOME!!!
You have such a positive attitude, Erin. I have always admired that about you. You are such a sweet mom and really know what your priorities are. Your children will THANK you one day for making this great sacrifice . . and having fun while doing it! You're awesome.
Fun! Come to DC next!
You are a wonderful example and person.
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