To all the farmers wives...........or any moms :)

I've talked to a lot of overwhelmed mom's the past couple weeks.  I realize how different life is the older the kids get.  It gets easier I promise.  In the past week we've only had one meltdown (of the kids not me :)  I remember all the pressure when the kids were young.  And I think social media makes it worse.  All the comparisons to others. 
It's so hard sometimes, but as mom's we need to know, it's ok when things aren't as planned and schedules aren't followed. When workouts don't get done and we're behind on house work.  When showers aren't taken and we eat take out a few times a week and left overs the other days.  Are you're kids happy?  Do they have smiles on that dirty smudged face?  Do they feel loved?  That's all that matters!  A few years ago, we decided to gage "issues" on, "is this a salvation issue?"  Is the problem we are facing something that is going to impede their salvation?  That often decompressed many situations in this home. 

This week Brooke had an apt at Devos.  Just her regular 6 month physical.  I told her to get dressed.  She came out with red pants with hearts on them, a bright pink Hello Kitty shirt (that she's worn for 2+ years and has seen better days), and purple sparkly shoes.  Oh boy!  My first question, "Brooke, when are you going to grow out of that shirt and never wear it again?"  Her response, "You're going to stop giving me growth hormone so I can wear it forever!"  NICE!!!
Next, "maybe you should put clothes on that match, or look good?"  Her response, "Mom, I feel good, so I must look good!"   What do you say to that?  I just reassured her, she does look good, her outfit is amazing and we were on our way.  Definitely not a salvation issue.  It was a mom issue, and I'm learning to let go of those. 
Many of the farmers have started planting.  I was actually super excited!  Steve had started planting mentally for a couple weeks.  He was all ready, but the land wasn't.  That drives a farmer crazy.  So we welcome the nice weather and happy farmers.  Farm on my friends!

So far this spring we've enjoyed Brooke learning to ride a two wheeler!  Kinda a big deal here.  No more training wheels!!!  

The twins, Leah and Ash all had music concerts.  If you want to be spiritually moved go to a Holland Christian music concert with kids.  WOW!!!  So touching.  Brought me to tears.  Love to hear those kids praising God! 

Happy Spring!!  Enjoy the great weather and all those terrific kids :)