Do you ever have one of those days? Well, I've had several of those days lately. In an effort to ward off my own grouchiness after a long morning of school lessons, I thought that our family should take advantage of the beautiful fall weather and have an afternoon of fun. Mr. C took the afternoon off and was able to join us.
Unfortunately, we don't have much in the way of playgrounds in our rural area. After doing a bit of online research, we drove a little over an hour away to the most amazing park. In fact, it's the largest volunteer-built park in the state of Georgia.
As soon as we pulled in to the parking lot the kids started squealing. They were so excited! Lil' Nut immediately headed for the toddler play area. It wasn't too long before she was playing on the "big kid" equipment.
All of the girls spent most of their time on the swings.
I thought that Bookworm and Mickey would get sick from spinning on the tire swing, but they survived.
The majority of the play equipment was a huge castle-like maze. You couldn't ask for a more perfect place to play hide-and-seek with Daddy. While he and the kids were playing, I was content to sit on a nearby bench and peruse the pages of a new book. I eventually gave up trying to read because it was so much more fun to watch the kids and my husband chasing each other around.
As the afternoon slipped away and we loaded the kids up to head home, I realized how relaxed I felt. It was such a wonderful feeling after having several days of a less-than-meek-and-quiet spirit. Instead of allowing myself to get worked up over situations that I cannot control, I need to simply trust the Lord and allow His peace to fill me. I am so blessed to have healthy children who can run and play, and God has given me a wonderful, Godly husband who loves spending time with his family. What more could I possibly ask for?
I don't find my role as a wife and mother the least bit boring, but once in a while I do experience a bit of burnout. When I feel that frustration creeping in, I reflect on moments like the ones we shared today as a family.
The next time you feel like the walls are closing in on you, make some memories with those you love. I think you'll find that the gloom will quickly disappear.
Create in me a clean heart, O God;
and renew a right spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10
Labels: Family Life, My Thoughts, The Kiddos