Life around the house is a little out of sorts these days. I recently had foot surgery that requires me to be off my feet for at least 3 weeks. For you other busy moms, you can appreciate that this turns the world on its side. I'm pretty much confined to a recliner with my foot propped up. I can move around as needed with the help of crutches or a knee walker, but many simple tasks are quite difficult or impossible. I hate having to depend on others to help me. Not that I don't appreciate my husband giving me a helping hand, but normally we approach things as a team. Anyway, it's hard to stay optimistic that I'm going to feel better in the end. If you ever watch much daytime TV, your brain will become mush and you may begin to think the world has gone to hell in a hand basket.
So, while I did my best to make this transition easier on everyone by preparing meals, stocking up on supplies, giving detailed instructions on household tasks, and cleaning feverishly, it still has not been the easiest for my family. My one saving grace is the sweet compassion I see in my girls knowing that mom is hurt. Each day they rush home to see me and give me lots of hugs and check to see how my "ouchie" is doing. The few times I've been in visible pain, Gracelyn has been extremely worried and loving. I don't want them to see me like this, but I'm also thankful that they are there for an extra hug or kiss.
As I mentioned, I hate depending on people. I pride myself on my fierce independence. There have been many circumstances in my life that required me to have a "buck-up camper" attitude and because of that I like to think that I can take care of myself. When I got remarried and had kids, I added them into the fray of things I needed to take care of and watch out for. This isn't to say that I don't appreciate the relationship that spouses have and the adage that husbands are supposed to take care of the wives. But with all this free time on my hands, I've had some revelations. Why can't I take the time to let my body heal and not feel guilty? Why do I feel like I can't be away from work? Is the world going to end if I'm at home? The answer is no. My responsibilities will still be there when this is over. The world will go on. So, ladies we need to learn to take care of ourselves. Sometimes it's ok to put ourselves first. Sometimes we need to be taken care of and pampered (without feeling guilty). Mostly, though, I know I want my girls to learn to be independent young women but to know that it's ok to not always be in charge of everything.
