It won't be long

The last few weeks have been increasingly difficult for me. My mama strength is depleted, leaving me exhausted and low on patience. After a particularly exhausting dinner on Monday, my dear mother pointed out that I should enjoy the insanity as someday the silence would sound deafening. It got me to thinking...

I should embrace the meltdowns at dinner time, because it won't be long before she is too worried about her weight to eat.

I should embrace his face all lit up when he talks about fire trucks, because it won't be long before video games become his favourite pastime.

I should embrace the early morning baby feedings, because it won't be long before our quiet cuddles are replaced with sleepovers away from home.

I should embrace the meltdowns over who gets to wash their hands first, and in which bathroom, because it won't be long before they aren't home at lunch to eat together.

I should embrace the tears over unwelcome meals, broken lego and bedtime, because it won't be long before tears are shed over first loves, first lovers squarrels and first loves lost.

I should embrace the dark circles and puffy eyes from the very little, broken sleep patterns of these early years, because it won't be long before missed curfews and drunken experiments leave crows feet and worry lines.

I should embrace the chaotic sounds of three children talking over one another, because it won't be long before they don't want to talk to each other, or me, at all.

Most of all, I realize I should embrace the now.

I will move from 'should' to 'will' embrace our crazy, chaotic life. I will accept and find peace in knowing my children are smart, confident and loving in every way.

Mom - you always know just what to say.
xo