A good mommy

Just a note to myself, these are the things I've learned lately about doing my job better:

• Stop comparing myself. When Stephanie was here on Thursday I kept lamenting about all the wonderful things I saw other mothers doing. She helped me see there is a balance, and we all mother in our own way.


• Enjoy it more. I loved watching my friend Emily and her kids. They really enjoy each other and are very positive and upbeat. I want to make our home feel like a happier place to be all of the time. More play and less stress.


• Roll with it. Amanda's job sure seems harder than mine in lots of ways, more kids, more trials. But she never complains and always seems to have such a positive attitude. Do I really need to freak out that I didn't get the floor vacuumed today? Really?


• Notice all the little moments more. I enjoyed watching Nikki watch her daughter. It made me realize how much of my boys I am missing in all my stress and worry.


• Focus on them more. Lena's focus always seems to be on her kids (or whatever kids are in the room). We're all happier when I focus on everyone else. It's so easy to get caught up in the worldly idea of meeting my own "needs." And it never makes me happy. That's when mean mommy comes out.

It was great hanging out with these women Friday night. I appreciated learning from them and having fun with them. It was just what I needed.