Happy Mother’s Day

Fixing bottles, changing diapers, finding socks, tidying, putting away, wiping tears, searching for binkies, making sandwiches, spooning yogurt, washing dishes, sticking on Band-aids, pretending, reading, baking bread, folding laundry, picking up, playing Candyland, visiting the playground, walking to the library, making Play-doh sculptures, guiding, encouraging, hugging, holding, brushing teeth, combing hair, wiping bums, applying Orajel, peek-a-booing, singing, singing, singing, healthy snacking, teaching, showing, disciplining, explaining, answering questions, cuddling, cleaning, washing hands, vacuuming crumbs, putting together puzzles, watering flowers, applying sunscreen, putting shoes on the right feet, consoling, listening, storytelling, making dinner, running out of wipes, buying wipes, giving baths, tucking in, saying prayers, re-tucking in, loving.

At the end of the day, is it any wonder we mamas feel like we’ve done a lot, but accomplished nothing? When I read this post on Lovely Design, (which inspired my list of “mama duties”) I smiled to myself because it so perfectly captured how I’ve been feeling. Often, especially THESE days amidst the mountains of paperwork, phone calls, and red tape associated with selling one home and buying another, I’ve felt my Home Made Modern spirit waning. Instead, I’ve been experiencing a not-so-admirable need for praise for all I’ve been doing, and begrudging all the decidedly unglamorous duties associated with motherhood.

But after reading Sharilyn’s post, I’m reminded that motherhood and its requisite duties really only serve as a springboard for my creativity. After all, I wouldn’t want to create a cozy nest if not for my babies. I wouldn’t feel as compelled to make healthy meals from scratch if not for my family. And I wouldn’t feel inspired to make crepes or leaf rubbings, take nature walks, dance in the middle of the afternoon, or fashion a guitar from two pie tins if it weren’t for my daughters. Once again, I’m reminded that becoming a mother hasn’t taken away my ability to be creative, although it’s tough to remember this while changing the Diaper Genie. But when I can grab a moment to breathe, I can appreciate that motherhood has given me such a love of life because of all the opportunities to teach and experience things with my girls. And through those moments, creativity is born. And that’s what Home Made Modern is all about: finding opportunities to make the everyday special, and retaining your sense of self in the process.

So, Happy Mother’s Day to all of you. Pat yourselves on the back for everything you do, and know that your time and love is really all that’s required.