A FRESH START

The last two and a half years have been filled with many challenges for our family.  We have faced obstacles that I never dreamed I could overcome or we as a family could overcome.  I can honestly say that some of these trials, I have not faced with very much grace.  However, as I look back I have learned something from each of these experiences. 

The last six months have been filled with anxiety, depression, and a lot of fear.  With some advice from many concerned parties, I realized it was time to take back my life. When this decision was made, I realized I REALLY wanted to become a better Wife and a better Mother.  This has been my mission and will continue to be!!! 

Being 31 and having five kids under the age of 12 has not been easy.  I have struggled with being a mom and not always a healthy Mom.  I have always cared for my children.  However, it is embarrassing to think that it has taken this long to realize that I not only want to care for my children but I want to really get to know them on a more personal level. I now look and my kids and think of how much I have missed the last three years.  My youngest, Taylon, was only one when I faced the challenges that came with the psedotumor ceribri and the medication side effects.  He has grown leaps and bounds as have all my children.  My oldest, Elizabeth started Jr. High this year and is about to turn 13.  Oh, how time flies!!!  Over the next couple weeks as I begin blogging again, I hope to update you on my children and how they have changed since my last posts.    

My new challenge:  Getting to know my husband and children on a more personal level. 

A few weeks ago we started  several new "traditions" I guess you could say.  One of my favorites takes place at the dinner table. I have always loved family dinner time.  Since Aaron and I married 13 years ago, we have always felt it was important to have meals around the table.  We turn off  distractions (t.v.  however, we need to add cellphones to this because lately they have become a HUGE distraction) and we enjoy each others company. We go around the table and ask, "What was your worst part of the day, and what was the best part of your day?"  It is fun to get to know what bothers someone in the day and what makes them happy.  We have learned that at every meal Taylon is going to say the exact same thing.  His worst part of the day is not going to school and his best part of the day, everyday, he says, "Playing with Nana."  

I have wanted to find some new ideas to start with the kids. I have loved finding ideas on Pinterest so I searched out kids activities.  I came across a couple 30 day challenges.  Being May 1st, I decided it would be a great time to start the 30 Marriage/30 Mom challenge I found at www.imom.com. 

May 1st Marriage challenge: Ask, "What can I help you with today?"
              Mom challenge: Ask, "What is one thing we can do together this month?"

Tomorrow, I will post the results from today.  As well as an update on Ellie.