Open the Windows

"Sometimes we just need a fresh perspective on our circumstances.....someone to open a window and let in a breeze in a room that we didn't realize had gotten so stuffy...." That's the opener to a new favorite book (and oh so short!) by Rachel Jankovic. She is a mom with 3 in diapers and is writing on motherhood in real time. Not reflecting back and only remembering hazy, beautiful picturesque moments. I love this from her first chapter (which is a page and a half):

"If there is anything I have learned in the course of my fast and furious mothering journey, it is that there is only one thing in my entire life that must be organized. The kids can be running like a bunch off hooligans through a house that appears to be at the bottom of a toaster, and yet, if organization and order can still be found in my attitude, we are doing well. But if my attitude falters, even in the midst of external order, so does everything else."

"It's no abstract thing - the state of your heart is the state of your home. You cannot harbor resentment secretly toward your children and expect their hearts to be submissive and tender."

"Loving the Little Years" - Rachel Jankovic.

I am totally encouraged.

Here's the latest on my little years - Robby loves The Cat in the Hat - and found this life size guy to hug today at the Toledo Public Library (which is amazing!). We went to a water park for Cru - a 24 hour winter retreat - and here is their handsome daddy arms proudly full of joy. (they each are clearly interested in other things, however)