I've been focusing on being disciplined (or as I say, on a diet) about the internet. Limiting my time on here to only 3 times during the daytime, for 30 min. at a time; I set a timer and then get off when I'm done. It's so easy to get sucked into the abyss of blogs & funny stuff & facebook & emails & the list could go on and on....
(Trying to catch this one smiling on camera is proving to be very hard! She is always so happy but I just can't seem to get a good pic of it!)Sometimes, as a stay at home mom, it's the only way to connect to the world. We stay home a LOT. It's an overwhelming task for me, being a self-proclaimed hermit AND the mama to four kiddos 4 years & under, to see that leaving the house for a quick errand to the store is really worth the 45 minutes it takes us to get ready to go out the door, buckle everyone into their carseats, get unloaded & loaded into shopping carts, etc etc.
(What a motley looking crew!)Most days, I just opt for us to stay in our own environment. We have mom's day out on Tuesdays, and ballet/children's choir/church on Wednesdays, and church stuff on Sundays as well.We usually invite someone over for a visit at least once a week. It's not like we are totally isolated, but there are definitely times where I go a couple of days without grown up interaction, besides with the hubs. 
(Playing "basketball" before Wacky Wednesday- pajama night- at church last week.)
Am I complaining- not one single bit. I explain all of this to say WHY the internet is such a strong temptation & draw for me every day, but also to remind myself that while connecting with grownups is very important, so is being present with my kids.
Building forts with them.
Teaching them how to interact with each other.
Trying not to miss any of these moments, no matter how crazy.
Teaching them about grace & the Gospel. And animal sounds.
I am right there with you - everything you wrote about here is how I feel! Being sort of isolated, the internet being a social outlet, but needing to be present with small kiddos!
ReplyDeleteLove your thoughts on making sure we are more PRESENT as a mom. You are such an inspiration and example to me, V! ;) This is definitely something I need to work on.
ReplyDeleteI have been doing the same thing V -- I realize how for such a long time I was worried about getting things done - well no more - time passes too quickly!! And love the videos -- you have some strong genes girl!! Cauuute kiddos!
ReplyDeleteI have also been doing this, and the difference it has made for me has been phenomenal.
ReplyDeleteThese are just precious!
You are blessed!
I think a lot of us mothers could learn a lesson from this blog post. The internet sucks me in too. I was just telling my husband last night, how I don't have enough "silly time" with my 3 year old. So today I made it a point to dance and sing with her, even though I'm still battling my first trimester exhaustion, and I made sure to keep calm when it came to dicipline, rather than blowing things out of the water and making them worse than they need to be. It was harder than previous days, I definetely had to put way more effort into being a mom, but at the end of the day, it was all worth it.
ReplyDeleteI should try the timer technique.
First of all, your kids are adorable- i love the chubby little baby thighs :) Kids do grow up way too fast, especially once they start going to school. I feel like I don't hardly have any time with my 5 year old and really need to make the most of my time with the two who are at home before I lose them to school, too. I will try the timer technique. I think that kids are more important, no matter what exciting things might be going on in the blogosphere or elsewhere online but I certainly feel that same temptation and get sucked in far too often. Thanks for the reminder.
ReplyDeletewhat timing that you posted this. I have been doing the same thing. the internet can really suck you in! hehe. I love the pictures, and love what you have been up to. perfect! :)
ReplyDeleteyes, I agree totally. I think setting a timer is such a great idea! Your kids are so cute and I commend you, your job is extremely tough, 4 under 4! wow. amazing how you scrap at all and keep all your commitments!
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet post. So so true. Thanks for the reminder. I get lost "screen sucking" too. Your kids are adorable!! Love how they suck their little fingers! =)
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