Beginning next week, for the first time ever, all three of my birdies will be leaving the nest for eight hours a day. Since I became a mother in November of 2005...but arguably never...I have not experienced such extensive solitude. I have had glimpses. Tim takes the kids camping for a weekend every spring while I spend the weekend alone. Every year, I revel in the peace and freedom these days afford me. You know I love my children. I have a wonderful brood of angels that (unless the TV is lulling them into a glassy eyed stupor) never cease moving, talking, asking, snuggling, fighting, hugging, running, loving, shouting, wrestling and imagining. But, hey...mothers are as diverse as people and this particular mother struggles like mad with disorganization and inconsistency. Both of these shining personal qualities exacerbate the organically chaotic atmosphere that emerges when siblings share space. In other words, motherhood has allowed me to experience a depth of love I never knew...but it also kicks my butt.
Yes indeed. As I look ahead to my life of solitude, my heart swells with relief and excitement. I am looking forward to doing all the things I have neglected for ten years...like getting haircuts and planning supper prior to 4p.m. And my children...I look forward to showing them what it's like to be loved and cared for by a mother who is physically, emotionally and spiritually healthy. A mother who relies on God for every breath.
