The focus in this blog is on French style, rustic farmhouse flair, the old, and well loved. I feel sometimes, though, that it gets a bit stale. It's funny because I do not think that of others' blogs. Just mine. So today, for Mother's day, I am going to branch out a bit and write about something a little deeper....vulnerability can be a good thing.
I pray every day, asking for the guidance, strength, and courage to be the best mom I can be. It is my most fervent endeavor. I know in my heart that I can be too strict and even humorless under the weight of schedules, sibling rivalry, etc. I am easily bogged down by work, bills, stress. That being said, during spring break, I made a conscious decision that this was the kids' time, and vowed to make it fun and enjoyable. I was going to let go for a few days.
I took a day off work and we invited my friend's son to come with us to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. I promised myself (and quietly prayed for help) that I would not worry about money, health, work, the aging process :), how clean my apt was or how I am going to pay for college......I could go on. I have said several times since, that it was one of the best days I can remember. And one of the reasons for that is that I was....so.... truly.... present. This is what it yielded.
I am aware that the seemingly life threatening rides are a big part of creating these smiles. But I do believe strongly that kids feel our stress as well as lack thereof.
When I was growing up I remember our family vacations very fondly. I come from a family where our dinner plates always featured protein, vegetables, and a starch. We were the kids with apples instead of oreos in our lunches and who went to bed at 7:30 instead of 9:00 like the other kids. Don't get me wrong. I had a fantastic childhood, but it was structured. Then came the week or two when my parents took time off from work and we would go to the beach. Things were a bit different there. I feel like the most common word out of my parents' mouthes was "yes". We would ask for pancakes for dinner and they would say with a smile, "why not?" I remember being stunned at first. How fun!! We got whatever we wanted (within reason :)) and it made these times very special.
I have adopted this view when it is vacation time with my girls. They love it and know just where it comes from. I am grateful to my wonderful parents. I am fortunate. As a result of their hard work and dedication I can say that I had a happy childhood. Now, if I can just pass that on to my kids.
Happy Mother's Day to you all
Michele
ps this small amusement park is on the beach in Santa Cruz, CA. It is a beautiful spot. It is very fun and easy. Not much waiting for the rides and plenty to keep you busy for a full day.
ps this small amusement park is on the beach in Santa Cruz, CA. It is a beautiful spot. It is very fun and easy. Not much waiting for the rides and plenty to keep you busy for a full day.
