The Courage to Keep On Mothering

The kids don't always do what I say.

The house is mostly a jumbled mess.

Cooking doesn't come naturally to me  and the kids don't always want to eat what I make.

9, 4, and 2.  Those ages don't play nicely half the time.

Kids would rather play than finish their schoolwork.

Screaming down the hall...

Pouring out the cooking oil...

Playthings in the toilet...

Fingerprints everywhere...

Diaper changes, time outs, water spills, sibling fights, and everything in between.

Everyday is more than an adventure, it's a challenge to keep on going!

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But their smiles block out the mess.

And their kisses make the weariness go away.

(Coffee helps a little too.)

Little big hugs reassure me they actually love each other after all.

Their shrill singing voices become my theme songs.

And material things don't hold value anymore.

My children's happiness and their innocent hearts...

Everyday, they give me courage to keep on mothering!

Comments

  1. RoryboreWednesday, March 26, 2014 at 5:31:00 AM PDT

    Ah, so lovely. and sums it up so perfectly. nicely done.

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  2. My Inner ChickWednesday, March 26, 2014 at 9:09:00 AM PDT

    Gorgeous Family Photo!!!! I Love it!.

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  3. ClaudiaWednesday, March 26, 2014 at 12:23:00 PM PDT

    That is really beautiful, Janice. It is nice to feel the love in your words :)

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  4. AlisonWednesday, March 26, 2014 at 7:35:00 PM PDT

    This mothering thing really isn't for the weak :)

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  5. Julie @MomspectiveFriday, March 28, 2014 at 3:20:00 AM PDT

    Mine are 9 & 6 - couldn't agree more!

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  6. Nadia @ Mama and the CitySunday, March 30, 2014 at 10:14:00 AM PDT

    This is so beautiful and so true. We go through rough times, but their hugs and kisses, their love to us is just as rewarding as a big fat cheque.

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  7. RobbieMonday, March 31, 2014 at 2:25:00 PM PDT

    It's not easy but definitely worth it!

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  8. JaniceWednesday, April 2, 2014 at 7:45:00 AM PDT

    That pretty much sums it up!

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  9. JaniceWednesday, April 2, 2014 at 7:46:00 AM PDT

    What you've said pretty much applies to me as a homeschooler - and I really wish people, especially my dad, can see and understand that...

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  10. JaniceWednesday, April 2, 2014 at 7:47:00 AM PDT

    9 & 6 ... the lively years! Haha!

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  11. JaniceWednesday, April 2, 2014 at 7:48:00 AM PDT

    You said it, Alison!

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  12. JaniceWednesday, April 2, 2014 at 7:48:00 AM PDT

    Thank you, Claudia.

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  13. JaniceWednesday, April 2, 2014 at 7:53:00 AM PDT

    Thanks, Les.

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  14. DavidTuesday, April 15, 2014 at 6:05:00 AM PDT

    I cannot agree more. It's been a while since I've been here, because I'm heavy involved in a work project that's coming to an end this week, but wanted to wish you happy Lent, and I'll check back in next week.

    Also having a couple of health concerns. My heart's not stony, but my kidney and gall bladder are, lol.

    I've seen how being a parent, the love of family makes up for all the challenges. It's true in marriage, too! God bless you and your family, Janice.

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