N is constantly telling me how weird common occurrences are. I have to keep reminding her that she still has a lot to learn. These things aren't strange, they're just unusual to her because of her limited experiences.
Sometimes as wives and mothers we get so engrossed in our daily routines that we forget that there are still a lot things to learn and experience. One of the best ways we can learn new things is to learn from the more mature and experienced.
I was reminded of this last week while Suzy was here. This blog (whenever I get time to actually blog) is supposed to be dedicated to the things that I've learned from her and others and am trying to perfect as a homemaker. But I realized I've still got much more to learn from her.
Lesson 1: Live well
Sometimes as wives and mothers we sacrifice for the good of the family. I've given up unlimited shopping and hair and nail appointments to afford to stay home. Even things I can afford to do I pass on to help the family reach its financial goals, choosing instead to sock money away in savings accounts for college, down payments and such. I comb hair till I feel like my arms are going to fall off so that my children are presentable and I take little time for myself so that my husband who works very hard can get a little R&R.
I don't regret those decisions and I'm not complaining but Suzy reminded me that sometimes I have to come up for air. It's okay to treat yourself once in a while. I won't be any good to anyone if I'm tired and worn out. So she shopped till I dropped. 😀
Lesson 2: There is always more to learn.
My mom has taught me how to cook, organize, administrate, sew, decorate, and mother. I'm still working on perfecting all of those. She was shopping for jewelry to match a certain outfit. When she couldn't find it she made her own! She's constantly learning a new skill be it self taught or through formal education. She has multiple degrees and certifications and she's found another to pursue.
She left me some supplies so it looks like I'll be learning to make jewelry too!
Lesson 3: Take advantage the quiet times.
With kids constantly underfoot it can get challenging to find time to read the Word of God and pray like I used to. The girls constantly wanted Suzy's attention to play another game or watch them do something. I did t know if she was going to be able to deal with it but she was gracious with them and yielded time and time again. They even had her sleep in their room and climbed in bed with her first thing in the morning. Not even the bathroom door stopped them. So when was she supposed to spend time with God? I normally wait until they go to bed or send them to go play but she seemed to seamlessly work time into the day. I'd walk in the room and she'd be listening to the Word.
While these are not earth shattering revelations or anything I didn't know but they are things that young mothers forget. Let those with more experience and a track record of success share their wisdom with you.