Dancing in the Mess

Dancing in the Mess

Things feel like they’re falling apart around here. Jon’s been working lots. We just got a whole new system at work, and I’ve been busy with that. Many of my friends and family have big, heavy stuff going on, and I’m worried I haven’t been supportive enough. There’s soccer and swimming. The house is a mess. The laundry is piling up. The fridge is pretty bare. I accidentally gave one of the kids sour milk with their breakfast. I’ve barely looked at the yard, but I’m starting to see weeds accumulating.

It’s a lot.

But today is Mother’s Day, and it’s supposed to be special. Breakfast in bed, maybe brunch. Flowers and home-made cards. 

I know this isn’t everyone’s experience. Life is complicated, and it sure isn’t always magical. Jon left for work before any of us were up this morning, but there was a gift waiting for me on the kitchen table. And when the kids woke up, they retrieved all of the artwork they’ve been storing up under my bed. I ooh-ed and awe-ed over every piece, of course.

While I was hanging them up, Brenna asked if I knew who Taylor Swift was. I confirmed that I had heard of her and showed her a photo from the current tour. She said, “That looks like a gymnastics suit!” It does. We put on some Taylor Swift. The sun was shining through the windows. The sink piled high with dishes. Bowls of cereal, a half eaten Eggo, and discarded apple skins lay on the table.  And we danced. 

“We all got crowns, you need to calm down!” blared. And we held hands and spun around. Looked into each other’s eyes, shouted the wrong lyrics, and laughed. Stepped around toys and somehow managed to avoid the odd soggy Cheerio. 

We danced. And it was enough. 

Happy Mother’s Day. 


Breaking Horses and Breaking Hearts: Gentle Parenting in My Own Words

Breaking Horses and Breaking Hearts: Gentle Parenting in My Own Words

Tough Stuff

Tough Stuff