Time For Me

I found a very fun find at a yard sale not too long ago.  It is a book that is called "The Art of Doing Nothing."  I have been trying to learn from this book.  The best thing, though, is when I found my husband hunched over reading the book.  Then, when we were on a rare date some time ago, he mentioned the book and what he read!!  My struggle is taking time for myself.  The truth is, it doesn't have to be timely or costly!!

Since having Eden in our home now for four years, I have needed to take extra time and care for myself.  It has brought such mental and emotional exhaustion!!!  I tend to downplay everything but that gets exhausting, as well as holding in my emotions because my extra special needs kiddos are very sensitive to my emotions.  Just to try to explain to you the realness of this, I can tell you that not that long ago my chest literally ached, it was so sore, aching when I breathed and do you know what that was from?  Emotions that I had been holding in!! 

I don't want pity, that is not what I want to result from this!  If this helps others to understand and look on others who are in special situations maybe it will help you to not be quite so quick to judge, maybe show a little more care and tenderness to the situation!  

While I know I have no reason to explain my reason of absence last week, I do want to encourage others to take the time they need for themselves to be a better wife, mother, and person.  I know every one's life holds unique situations and problems.  That is life!  I was feeling guilty because my cup needed filling up so I could give again!! 

I went to the ocean where our friend, Rose (who has helped us and given us more tools for helping Eden) lives.  She told me, "If you don't take care of yourself, life will eat you away and you will be old very early!"  She has told me time and time again that this journey we are on with Eden is not a sprint but a marathon and since you know I'm a runner, I can definitely relate!!  :)  The ocean is also a place of restoration and true relaxation for me.  I realized that I had not truly been able to let down for such a long time!  Since school started it has been intense!

On an upbeat note, I am happy to say that Eden had 2 consecutive weeks of having good days at school which we celebrated, friends!!!  This was a big thing!!! 

This was taken right before my massage

theraputic!!

I had some shopping time, cute fun vintage stores and the good ol' TJ Max kinda stores!!  I had time watching the waves, walking, collecting shells for my kids, and running in the sand!!  The weather was incredible!!!  Seafood for dinner also!  What more could you want?!