If I’ve Learned Anything…

While my husband was out of the country, I decided to make a big change…. I cut off roughly 6 inches of my belly-button-length hair and added that annoyingly infamous side bang “swoosh,” as I like to call it. I also, tried out those sticker nail things that are quite the rage. You really can’t get more innovative than that…

Okay, actually, you can. And, honestly I’m not too good with change. I can’t stand the bangs or the nail stickers. But, I did learn a thing or two during the past few months; while my husband was away and I was the “man” of the house.

Now, before we go any further, I want to say that I’m not being political in any way by referring to myself as “the man.” I 100% believe that men are MALE and women are FEMALE, and that we are each created for unique roles in the very image of God! I am simply referring to stepping up and doing what needs to be done, regardless of the situation.

What I Discovered
The last four months of 2020 were a whirlwind of chaos. A completely different level of crazy that we have never experienced before. But, if we don’t take those wild experiences for face value, and learn from our circumstances are we really, truly living our best lives?! I think not. So, as I review those epic months, I am drawn to one single conclusion….I can’t do anything on my own.

I have a need for deep companionship with friends who have my back, and have been there. I desire friendships that are meaningful and have stood the test of time. I crave deep belly laughter and honest, raw emotion, desiring so much more than the superficial fluffy conversations about the weather.

I also long for the assurance of a solid community surrounding me and my children with a network of belonging and being known. The welcoming arms of a church family or a homeschool group inviting us to come. A group of people who are like-minded and I know I can count on to set the right example for my family.

Of course, while my husband was working away from home, I felt such an empty hole in my life because I am in desperate need of an unconditional, loving relationship with a partner who is the perfect compliment to my abilities. Only a spouse can fill this role, and I am incredibly thankful for mine!

And, on top of all of these, I still am fully dependent on Creator God who is orchestrating each tiny step I take. He is not the Creator of the chaos in my life, but He is the only One who can walk me through it.

Regardless of what may be changing in my world, I know that these four things are the constant foundation. Even though I am an introvert, I have genuinely realized my need for being with others. And, I am “man enough” to admit it.

A few other things I learned that are necessary for my success during those months of parenting alone…
*A consistent schedule
*Regular down-time (days where we are simply busy being at home)
*Mom’s night out
*Healthy eating routines
*Freedom to say no
*Grace for myself in knowing that I can’t do it all
*Reach out to others when I need help

So, the next time my husband leaves the country for several months, I will be prepared for the sheer crazy that will happen. I will be proactive in setting up regular times to visit with good friends, keeping our schedule mostly normal, and accepting help instead of feeling compelled to give it. And I will be faithful in my resolve to abide daily in Him; to pray regularly, to read the Bible and to seek God’s will for my days.