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Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Have you Ever Thought: I just can't be a Mom today?

Now of course we would never vocalize the thought that some days we struggle as Mothers, right? That there are some days that we would like to nestle back down under the covers and just have one more hour of sleep. That most days we feel inadequate to parent these sweet children the Lord has blessed us with!

A couple weeks ago I was feeling bad emotionally and physically. I was feeling very overwhelmed by being a Mother of three little ones three and under, managing a home that never seems to stay clean or organized, carving out time to be able to spend with my wonderful husband, and all the projects I want to get done but never seem to have the time for. I remember just wanting to give up...don't get me wrong I love my children and husband with all my heart but I was just worn out. I stumbled upon this book called Desperate: Hope for the Weary Mom and it wasn't a book that had all the answers for being the perfect Mom or how to get everything accomplished. It was a book that breathed grace back into my life and reminded me I don't have to be the perfect Mom. It is written by Sally Clarkson and Sarah Mae, one who is still in the trenches of raising little ones and Sally who offers her wisdom and encouragement from already having been there.

I am still not completely finished with the book but let me tell you each chapter is brim full of encouragement and I constantly find myself saying--that's exactly where I am! It talks about how women can encourage and mentor one another in being a young mother and wife that glorifies the Lord. The chapters cover training our children, sin, depression, being lonely, etc. This is not a manual that instructs you in what to do as much as encourages you that others have been there too.  There is scripture throughout the book and both ladies take part in each chapter, Sarah writing Sally at the beginning and sharing her struggles with little ones and Sally sharing her experience and wisdom. I highly recommend the book for all mothers with little ones! Especially those that feel like they are drowning at times!

What You Will Find in Desperate
  • The perspectives of an younger women going through the little years, and an older woman who has raised her children well
  • QR codes and links at the end of each chapter that lead to videos with Sarah Mae and Sally talking about the chapter
  • A friend who so understands those “hide me in closet” moments
  • Practical steps to take during the desperate times
  • Bible study and journal exercises in each chapter that will lead you to identify ways in which you can grow as a mom
  • Mentoring advice for real-life situations
  • Q & A section with Sally where she answers readers questions
One of the chapters on depression has an amazing checklist that I found very helpful, sometimes when I am really feeling down it takes me a while to find out what caused it or triggered it and here is a quick list to assess what is going on:
  • Do I need sleep?
  • Have I been reading my  Bible?
  • Do I feel alone?
  • Am I watching my health? (Exercise)
  • How can I get help?
  • What do I need to invest in the joy factor in my life?
Usually it is one of those things for me...there is so much more in the book, definitely get it and read it! This week is the launch of the book so there is a lot of giveaways and special deals so this is a good time to get it!

2 comments:

  1. I've been thinking this lately. I have a 2 year old and 6 month old. I'm not sure what the problem has been lately, but like you I have been feeling overwhelmed and tired. It's like I can't catch a break. I've also been feeling guilty because I want a break. My focus has been to take time for me and find things that make me think so I can step out of toddler and baby land for a bit. My husband has been great and recognizes that I've been struggling lately. Thank you for sharing your struggle. You are doing a fantastic job. I pray that God embraces you in his warm arms and lifts you up.

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  2. I am about to start reading this book, too!! I'm so glad to hear that you've liked it! I thought it looked really wonderful when I saw it. And you're definitely not alone. Doesn't mean we don't love our families. Just means we're going through serious growing pains. ;) Love and miss you very much, sweet friend.

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