Maintaining My Identity

One of my fears about being a mom is that I'll get so wrapped up in my child, that I'll forget who I am. I don't want to be someone who lets go of everything they are in order to be a parent because I don't think it's healthy ... for parent or child.

Some people I know would call me selfish, would be appalled at the thought of doing things without their children, of taking time for themselves. I don't understand this mentality, though I can see how it would be easy to forget to take care of myself.

It's definitely more of an effort now... to step away from the things that "need" too be done around the house, to wash the bottles later, to let the laundry wait one more day, to let Jeff hold down the fort while I do what I want to do... whether that's shower, take a walk, or sit quietly and read for a bit.

Over the past couple of weeks, I've been taking time to myself (in between nursing sessions, of course) and working on another painting.

I've still go to put the finishing touches on the edges that are against the easel, but that'll have to wait a few weeks until the rest dries. Here's a look at our new art for the kitchen wall.

While working on this one, I had a lot of time to reflect on how lucky I am to have a husband who agrees with my belief in the importance of adding to one's identity while learning to be a parent rather than replacing it. He not only allows me time to do the things I like to do by taking care of Cassidy, he encourages it... suggesting that I take time to paint, walk, or do whatever I'd like to do. I'm sure many husbands out there are not so involved or so willing to do the work that goes into parenting. He knows that I crave time alone and isn't offended that I don't want to spend every moment with him. He is selfless and supportive, and I'm lucky to have him.