7 Quick Takes (Volume 31)

1) Boy, oh boy, a nerve was hit with this week's Assumptions post (To get the full effect, you've really got to read the comments. And I received more via Facebook and e-mail). Are we all a bunch of lonely women who look really good and confident on the outside, but pine away for meaningful relationships on the inside? Does it help to know those you find beautiful and smart and together feel the same way you do?

It's true, you know. I think ALL of us feel inferior or lacking in some way. Every single time I write something about this topic of connection among women and the way we stack ourselves up against each other, I get a lot of feedback. I'm thinking it's a subject we need to talk about more. It's time for us to quit being intimidated of each other and start relying on each other. Stay tuned. I know I'll be writing on this more in the days to come.

2) I got to be Supermom this week. My ten-year-old came home for the portion of the day we home school and was bummed because their elementary track and field day, which was supposed to take place that afternoon, had been postponed. In her words, "It was like telling us Christmas was cancelled." It was her teacher's birthday and it sounded like she planned to go out for lunch, but because the kids were disappointed, she changed her plans to eat with them in their classroom.

"We should bring back a treat for her birthday," I told my daughter, "We might have just enough time to make a giant brownie or cookie."

And so we did. Over and over I heard, "Thanks, Mom. This was a really good idea." She kept wrapping her hand around my arm and smiling, smiling, smiling. She made me feel like a million bucks. Later, I watched her carry the finished product into the classroom so proudly, like she was presenting a precious diamond to the Queen of England. It was one of those rare moments you think you may have done something right as a parent.

Such a simple thing, yet such a huge impact (Not only on my daughter. The teacher seemed touched too.). SO worth it.

3) Speaking of birthdays, yesterday was the birthday of my my dear friend, Linda. She is a smart, insightful, thinking kind of woman with a tender spirit and sincere heart for God (not to mention really great hair and eyes that dance when she smiles). She consistently encourages and challenges me, making me want to be a better person. See for yourself by taking a look at her blog, One Voice. Give her some belated birthday wishes while you're at it and pray she doesn't punch me for steering you her way. It's time to sink or swim, babe. You know I love you!

4) I'm one of those weird people who enjoy rainy days. There's something very soothing about the sound of rain gently falling and a little darkness in the middle of the day. I think I would enjoy living in a place like London or Seattle (hey, shout out to you, e-Mom), known for their foggy, rainy days.

5) It's a good thing I had the Supermom moment earlier in the week, because later I felt like a poor one, the mom who means well, but doesn't always get the job done for her kids. All of them have been asking for hair cuts I've put off scheduling (wasn't sure how or where to fit 'em in). My son worried his trip to a specialist was going to cost a lot of money (do I make him feel like the money is more important than him?). The one who's been extremely patient about her wacky cell phone and lack of a car is frustrated. And all I want to do is run away for a week with my husband. Some Supermom, huh? Aye yi yi.

It's crazy how lack of sleep and a busy week can sap the confidence right out of you, isn't it? Should we all recite the mantra together?

I am NOT a bad mom, I am NOT a bad mom, I am NOT a bad mom. . .

6) When I grow up I want the ability to answer multiple questions at the same time while I make dinner, ignore the phone, keep kids on task with homework, find the missing shoes for the concert and properly greet my husband without getting snarky.

7) I'm going to start my weekend off right by staying home today and I think my hunk of a man may actually be here too. The two of us alone in a quiet house for good portion of the day. . .I should be a new woman by 3:PM.


That does it for me on this May Day. Have a great weekend, my friends. Pop in on Jennifer at Conversion Diary for more Quick Takes.