Here is what I've discovered this week about our greatest challenges and blessings; of course these will generally be different than the rest of our travels, since the challenges and blessings this month relate to living with family. But here you go.
Greatest challenges:
1. Challenge: Sleep deprivation from the kids.
This of course was mostly a challenge when we were in a different place each night, and the kids were too tired/excited from all of the traveling to sleep much. Of course sleep deprivation adds to their already fragile emotions as there is a lot that is changing.
Solution: Staying consistent, and being emotionally steady so they feel safe. Keeping our routines as much as possible. For several months before we started traveling, I tried to keep our bedtime routine very regular (even more so than normal.) I feel like it's really helped them settle down to do the same things here that they are used to doing at home: Baths, teeth brushing, story time, scriptures and prayers, then bed.
2. Challenge: Consistent Timing
Our routine may be regular, but the timing has been really off! I'm learning that one of the challenges to moving in with family is trying to balance everyone else's schedules/needs with our family's. Plus, there's always a party going on, and it's hard to go to bed! :)
Solution: I am learning that just like at home, I have to plan ahead. I have to pick and choose which extended family activities to bow out of so the kids get in bed before 10 pm. :) Of course, some flexibility for some fun times is important too. It's just finding the balance, when you know this stay will last longer than just a week!
3. Challenge: Relaxing, without relaxing too much.
One of the tricks to being a mom is knowing how to let down and actually LET people help you. I've been surprised at how hard that is for me, even with my own parents. The other trick is not letting down too much, and remembering that all of the kids needs still exist, and all of the laundry still has to be done, etc etc.
Solution: Still learning how to balance all of this!
Greatest Blessings:
1. I love getting to come home, and I love seeing my children learn to love the places and experiences that I grew up loving. The fact that we get to spend some real time here, so they can have a long term experience both with this beautiful place, and with my family, is priceless to me!
2. I kept my Monday routine the same so that life wouldn't get too out of control. With only our bedrooms and bathrooms to clean, cleaning day seemed much easier and faster!!
3. Something about the farm brings so much peace and calm into my heart. Besides my parents gorgeous new home that is both comfortably spacious and so comfortable and cozy at the same time, it's such a blessing to be away from so many distractions and just soak in the simple life of the country. It's been very therapeutic after so many busy months leading up to this trip!
And of course, family time is the most valuable. Moments like this with great grandma and the cousins make my heart (and hers) happy. :)
Happy Monday everyone!!!
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