Change is in the Air
Changed things up on the homestead this past week…and it’s been good! I have this habit of getting in my own way and last week served as a good reminder of the blessings that can be reaped when I don’t.
During the summer, workload on the farm increases as the cows get moved every single day. Add in building another chicken coop, sump pump problems in the basement (which led to tearing out parts of the basement we just finished), fighting sickness, and just life all around…we’ve been stretched thin.
The kids always pick up on our mood, communication between everyone is slack, and we all miss “daddy time”. Not a good combination. And unfortunately, it’s not possible to ignore any of our projects (although we’re pretty good at that sometimes). As I kept thinking of ways to reduce Jason’s load so he could be home more it became clear I needed to do more.
I’m ashamed to say my selfishness, fear of the unknown, and inability to adapt to change well were constantly in the way of me offering to help – specifically on the farm. Afterall, I’m already a stay at home mom, help organize a few groups, help with other things on the farm, and meal prep and cooking take up the rest of my life!!!! (Welcome to everyone’s life, right?!?)
However, after feeling like I was at a breaking point from all the stress and sick of shedding tears – oh AND several “nudges” from God, I offered to help with moving the cows daily so Jason would be able to see the kids in the morning.
He was more than excited. I was…well…hesitant and terrified of the kids not listening while working around 1000 lb. plus animals. I mean – I’m not that large and they don’t listen to me all the time, so…!!! But after talking several things over and some encouragement (Jason reminded me I help on the weekend with moving anyway) I finally committed.
Of course – we had to change the moving time to the afternoon so the kids could still nap, and I requested direction on how big of an area to give them, placements of wires, etc. (Sorry not sorry – that’s the control freak in me!).
So last Tuesday was the first week the kids and I helped (Thank Goodness my mother-in-law assists). Naturally, when we pulled up, I noticed a cow on the wrong side of the fence, but we handled it like a boss, and everything was fine! So – What did I learn last week???
It wasn’t nearly as scary or hard.
The kids really enjoyed it.
Extra time outside is healing.
More opportunities for pictures!
Doing something new is empowering.
Most importantly, I was reminded that submitting to God is a wonderful thing. That contrary to my thoughts of submission being miserable or demeaning it creates new opportunities. That when I let go of my ideas of how our life should look and let God lead- things get better and we are blessed.
The kids have enjoyed their morning breakfast with dad, I’ve enjoyed his help with projects around the house, and everyone’s overall happiness has increased. Who would have thought???
