The Load

There’s so many “loads” in parenting.

I have got to look at things differently, if I’m calling raising children a “load,” right?

Endless loads of laundry, for which I will always be grateful, because I do look at is my “therapy” once the kids go to bed. I enjoy folding and sorting things. (call me crazy here)

Loads of school lunches every week. It’s amazing to me, but all 4 of my kids request a home lunch every single day. They love what I put in them, and that warms my heart. I sneak little notes in there lunch boxes every once in a while, letting them know I’m thinking of them. I don’t know if they like it or not, or if they see any sentiment whatsoever in my simple handwritten note, but, to me, it means that I am showing them they are important and special. I am thinking of them at that moment when they open their lunch and find that. Hopefully it makes them smile on the inside.. or the outside.

Loads of scoldings… seeming to be countless at this point. more like “correcting” and explaining why they shouldn’t call their sibling that name, or hit, or take something away from another, or interrupting, or just plain old being a bully. This is the most trying chore of parenting, in my humble opinion. It tests the ultimate level of patience any day of my week. (huge sigh here)…..

Loads of love.. this is a must.. and probably the most overlooked for me as a mom. I need to show more of this with all of the children. It’s difficult when I am worn down, frustrated beyond all levels of control, buttons pushed constantly, and the lack of respect facing me in most moments in our evenings. It’s super super super hard to stay focused, and remember to breathe, relax, take time out, and express love and appreciation for the gifts I have.. 4 lovely children. 🙂

Loads of poo… I’m mostly past this phase, THANK GOD! But, there are the occasional issues when someone doesn’t wipe properly, and that’s been a fun time. That’s all I’m gonna say about that…… you know what I’m talking about here…

There are so many other things I could add to the list of loads, but, the biggest LOAD of all here, I would say, are the emotional loads. Each child carries emotions, and expresses them in their own way. There are many ways to be loved and to show love. Mastering these, is a gift, and I have not, by any means, mastered my children’s emotions. I’m doing the best I can to fulfill their love needs, but I know I fall short daily. I just hope they love me anyway…