My Aunt said something recently that really stuck out to me. A while ago, she had been told by my Great Aunt that "the woman sets the tone in the house." Wow, what a statement! Then she followed up by saying, that may be true in some cases, but in the process, we should never lose ourselves. Even just typing these words, tears come to my eyes. I can't help but think, what a tremendous undertaking for women and mothers, while at the same time looking at myself and thinking "how am I doing this for my family?". And am I really taking care of myself in the process?
I am a first time mother-only one year in. My fiancé and I are learning so much, and let me tell you, it is so overwhelming! We are dealing with becoming one unit and letting go of some of our old ways...and we are both stubborn so it ain't easy! I feel like I'm constantly in this permanent state of "I'm doing too much, but I'm not doing enough", and I often wonder if that is projecting a certain energy into the house. So, I have been meditating on this and trying to figure out how I can set a "tone" in my home. This is what I have come up with so far (and I do think this is an ever evolving concept): Through confidence, I hope to make the right decisions for my family and home. I think this comes with taking care of myself, knowing myself (seems like a simple concept, but a lot of people don't quite get it), and recognizing others' feelings and needs, so I can give more. And by being able to give more this is what I hope to achieve in our home: I want to create a safe, secure place for my family and I to come home to. A place where we have dinner at the table as much as we can, with warm conversation and laughter. A place that my son can run to when he falls of his bike and he knows there will be a Band-Aid and kiss from mom (or dad!). A creative space that allows for learning and curiosity to roam free. Music, art, math, reading, all the disciplines to shape a respectful, thoughtful person. A well run home that everyone contributes to-all hands on deck to help and teach our son the respect he should have for his home and those around him. I want to establish a home that fosters an open conversation among the dwellers. I never want my fiancé or son to feel that they should keep something from me. Feelings, needs, wants, questions, and comments should be addressed and taken care of. Communication should always be open. I hope this makes you think about the tone in your home. And I hope we all stay grounded and not get too overwhelmed. We don't have to do everything, and we should definitely not leave ourselves behind as we help others. Don't forget, you can't pour from an empty cup! So, tell me, what do you hope to establish in your home? Peace, Anne
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Hello!
I'm Anne! Follow me as I go through life as a new mom and soon-to-be wife. Always looking for a creative outlet, I want to share all my ideas with you here at Life by Design! Archives
February 2018
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