The past month or so I have felt like anything BUT a great mama. We have gone from our typical intense summer schedule right into a non-stop September filled with meetings, moving and random work trips. Normally, I try to keep Elli's schedule fairly routine and balanced, but lately that just hasn't been much of a reality.
I'd like to be one of those mamas that never EVER turns the TV on to occupy their toddler. I'd like to be one of those mamas that doesn't offer a snack as a quick defense against whining. I'd like to never raise my voice or get impatient when Elli has ignores me for the twentieth time. I'd like to be Michele Duggar minus 17 kids or so. I'd like to be like Babywisers with neat little schedules that include four different types of play time and learning. I'd like to offer Tot School and other educational activities. I'd like to do crafts and projects and all the other messy fun things Elli is finally old enough to do.
There is this thing called REALITY, however, that just doesn't allow us much time for all of that right now (or ever). Instead we fill our days with free play and sneak in book time between packing and appointments. The most teaching I've done in the last 3 weeks is showing her how to use the dust mop out of desperation to keep her OUT of the pantry (which has been a GREAT source of entertainment). The only pre-birth ideals I've really been able to hold onto in this transitional season are #1 sleeping routines and #2 super food.
So, this morning I shoved aside the mama guilt and we cuddled in bed watching an hour of cartoons. I then whipped up a batch of super wholesome stick-to-your-ribs-full-of-good-stuff super porridge. I was amazed at how just knowing I fed Elli really well made me feel like a good mom. Today I'm going to hold on to that feeling for as long as I can and ignore the guilt.
Super Porridge
This is easy peasy and great for adults too. There are hundreds of different variations (if you have little ones I encourage you to check the book out at the library), but I'll just give you today's recipe.
Place in a food processor 1/3c of each (this doesn't have to be exact at all):
Millet
Brown Rice (I did 2 portions of rice)
Lentils
Pearl Barley
Process contents two or more minutes until a fine powder (if you'd like more texture don't process as long, but it will take longer to cook). Store in airtight container in fridge and use as needed. Cooking ratio 1/4c grains to 1 c water.
Boil 2 cups of water with a dash of salt. Add 1/2c of processed mixture while whisking. Reduce heat to simmer and cover. Continue to simmer for 10 minutes (or until all grains are tender), whisking every few minutes to avoid sticking or lumps. The consistency should be fairly thick similar to oatmeal or cream of wheat.
Eat as is or add in pureed or chopped fruit or veggies. We had left over mashed yams from dinner so I put about a 1/4c of those into Elli's portion (vitamin A is vital as we approach sick season). Store the remaining cereal in an airtight container and reheat in microwave as needed (add hot water if consistency is too thick).
5 comments:
You are one of the most loving and amazing moms I know... and I have worked with a lot of moms. I am allways proud to say that I want to grow up to be just like you, you are my Super Mom insperation!
I agree with Chrissy. You are one of the best mama's I know! You teach Elli about loving Jesus and loving people, and how to do things the right way - what a great example you are to her!
You are a super Mom! The others you mentioned don't show the true "reality" of raising kids. She is happy healthy and knows that you love her, you can't ask for more than that. I do understand though. Love you!
Why on earth would you want to be a babywiser.??? aka child abuser.Seriously children are not robots.babies have died because of him.! His own children and church have rejected him. Babywise is not wise,same with growing kids gods way.its child abuse.
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I find it amazing the criticism is often left by someone remaining "anonymous". If you have something strong to say, have the guts to face up to it.
Any harm done to a child is wrong. If a parent is using the guise of BW or any other program in such a way that it would harm their child physically or emotionally it is because the parent themselves are wrong, not the method. I (along with many other people who have read or "do" BW) have never left my child crying for a long period of time, I have never let my child go hungry and I do not put any sort of schedule above the needs of my child. It took nearly ten years for us to have a child. Trust me, rejection is not happening in our house. We actually lead a happy, whole life that is flexible and healthy. Rigid and cold are the last words that could ever be used to describe out parenting style. My guess is that you have never read any of the BW books and you obviously do not know us, otherwise you would not make such extreme comments.
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