It's no picnic

Neil L. Anderson said in October general conference, "Having young children is not easy. Many days are just difficult. A young mother got on a bus with seven children. The bus driver asked, “Are these all yours, lady? Or is it a picnic?”
“They’re all mine,” she replied. “And it’s no picnic."

Quite frankly this is how I feel today, it's no picnic. How is it that one can feel so much grattitude for all that I have, and yet all in the same breath feel completely overwhelmed? Is there something to say to a tired young mother that will not only lift her spirits, but increase her energy?

I told my husband tonight, "I have so much desire to feel energy, vibrant, strong, lovingly, and patient, and yet my body feels otherwise." Today I kept trying to move, and yet I couldn't...my body completely disagreed with my mind. So I was forced to lay down all day. Some would say WAHOO!!! It doesn't work like that when your a mother, all that takes place in the home requires you, and the worst part about it, when Mom is down others follow suit. So, at the end of my night I am assessing the damages, and tomorrow I will hope for a more cooperative body that will correct the problems of today.

But amongst my exhaustion today, I can say I wouldn't trade it, none of it!!! I felt so much joy today as I watched my children destroy my house, why? Because they are wonderful! They are exactly who they are suppose to be, and more. My oldest asked if he could do family home evening tonight, and with no help...He ran the show. WOW!!! The whole time, I fought my body for the few minutes of family home evening, and required it to be an active participate in this event...because it matters. He matters to me, and the person he is becoming.

And as much as I dread this exhaustion and nausea that will still be here tomorrow...its just right. There is a life inside of me, and that is a miracle full of blessings. So I will take it with a grateful hand.