This Quiet House
That was the title of a poem my daughter wrote me last year. In the process of doing some cleaning-out this weekend, I happened upon it again.
“A mother is someone who takes care of people,” the first line read.
And, at a glance, that sentence made me sigh.
Yes. A mother does take care of people. All the time.
I read that and thought about things like cooking and doing laundry and cleaning up the house. And as much fun as I had with my kids last week, that sentence reminded me that I was ready for school to start so I’d have more time to write and get things done.
But here I am today, alone in the house.
And I’m thinking…
About my son—my youngest—who, as much as I can’t believe it, is in second grade. And about my daughter, now in fourth grade, on a new playground. In a much bigger class.
And I wonder why I was so ready to have them back in school.
I can faintly hear their recess bell ring a few blocks away. And I’m picturing them in their new classes…my son, thoughtful and a little shy until he gets to know you. And then he becomes silly.
And my daughter, sweet and eager and social. And a little too hard on herself.
I’m thinking about all the things they’ll learn as they grow. The good times they’ll have, and the challenges they’ll face.
And in these still moments without them–without the laughter and constant singing and running around–the house seems awfully quiet.
And it reminds me how fast time is flying.
As I type this, trying to see the keyboard through watery eyes, I think about that question in my daughter’s poem, “What is a mother?”…
And I’m struck by the awesome privilege of knowing the answer.
Because of those two precious kids.
And the gift of being their mom.
Out of everything in my life, it is my favorite gift from God.
Oh, I think many of us felt this way about sending them back to school!! I’m savoring my last 2 years with my daughter before she goes! Every day is precious b/c they do pass quickly!!
Amen Sister!
I feel the same way. I couldn’t wait for them to start and now I want them home! I feel this way every year. It just reminds me how fast they are growing up.
Man…this is not where you were going AT ALL, but I read this and thought, I am never sending my kids to school!!!Huh?God bless-Amanda
Yes!! My daughhter is only going to MDO and I am in shock. This was so sweet. The greatist gifts!
Love your post and it is oh, so true!Enjoy every moment!
So true Genny. I love being a mom.
Oh I am so with you on this one. Even on my worst days (like the other week)I would never not want this “job”. I am so blessed to earn the title of mom. It suits me so much better than any other title I have ever had.
sniff, sniff…bwaaaaa. i have been going incredibly BONKERS lately w/ my boys. its like the last week is here and i want to savor each moment before school starts next week. and the past 2 days have been like crazyville w/ their energy and wildness!so, ahem…thank you for a good reminder today as i complain. that next week, when my 2nd & 4th grader are off to a whole new year…i'll be in that quiet house missing them terribly! so to snap out of it and hug them a big one today!
Another great post that puts all my blogging to shame. Today my home is quiet too. This is the first time in 5+ years I have been all alone in a still quiet house. The tv is off, the noise is gone, and I keep looking at the clock to see if it is 3:30 yet. I hope you enjoy your quiet time even though you miss your two most precious cargo.
Another “Amen” from me, but in an ulster accent!
Oh, that is such a great post, Genny. So true. Being a mom is just the best ever.
I fight this same battle, too, even on a daily basis. I can’t wait for bedtime to come, but then when I go in their room and look at them peacefully sleeping, I vow to be a better mother to them the next day.
Oh Genny, I didn’t need to read this – I’m already barely holding on to the idea of both of them gone all day by this time next week. I’m trying to fill my head with all the reasons this will be good, but it’s very painful nonetheless. How I love being a mother!
So true! You want that time for yourself, but then you get it and somehow don’t feel yourself because your little appendage(s) isn’t with you. I miss my daughter when she takes a nap, but then can’t wait for bedtime. I guess that might be the mantra of motherhood…-Carrie
I’m already missing my girl in my heart, and she’s only 16 months! But I could sure use some “me” time, too . . . Oh, the conflict, and the joy, of being a mom.
Being a mom is all so bittersweet- my girlfriend when she had her first son said before he came along I never knew it hurt so bad to love someone…my kids started school the week after July fourth and now only three weeks until their fall break. I’m so looking forward to it!
Will isn’t in school yet but sometimes I feel like I need a break, but the entire time I am away from him I miss him.
Isn’t it funny how we have those days when we just can’t wait for a break, and then when we get one, we spend the whole time missing the kiddos? :)
I have those moments when I realize what a privelege it is to be their mom… usually it’s when they’ve said something that really touches me. We are blessed.
Being a mom is the best job! I am glad for my son to be in school just because he loves it so much.He’s only been in a couple of days and I haven’t had any quiet time at home yet to start feeling sentimental!
So precious! I feel exactly the same way!
That is the very essence of it…they are truly a gift.
Being a mom ~ no matter what age the kids are ~ is one of lifes greatest joys.
Hi Genny, I just found your blog and am so happy I did. This post speaks directly to my heart and I have felt the same way this week as my children have been back in school!!!
Brought tears to my eyes… my little man in napping in the next room and I know in a few years he will be at school all day :(.. I will enjoy everyday. Thank you for sharing.
I love this post….It all goes so fast. That first year or two of baby and toddler-hood seemed long at times. If only I knew how quickly it would all go!
Now you have my eyes watering! This is just precious. Thank you so much for sharing. Treasure these days and moments. I only have one left at home and how I miss them all being here. Blessings girl.
Beautiful post. No matter the age of our children, we never stop being a “Mom”. It is a high and wonderful calling. Children are a treasure from the Lord.Blessings,Joy
Beautifully said. What a privilege it is to be a mother.
So true. I was just thinking today about my son leaving for college and actually posted my own writing from back then about it. No matter how old they are, we never quit being a mother, do we?
wow! It’s me 8 years ago! I had homeschooled the early years and when they were at school I couldn’t look at their old school stuff without crying. I missed them terribly and felt that loneliness. Actually, I often still do, as they drive off to different things.Life is so bittersweet. Leaning on the sweet!
I love summer and it’s rythym for me and my children. It is hard for me when school starts – great post
Thank you Genny for visiting my blog and leave such encouraging words yesterday. I appreciate your kind heart.Have great weekend.
Beautifully put…….as always.
I feel the same way. Thanks for the post! Beautiful as always!
Yes, I know how you feel! I’ve been so looking forward to my oldest (5 1/2 to start school for the first time. Tomorrow is the big day and I’m so sad. It will never be the same again!