One of Those Weeks

It’s been one of those weeks. I have an equal number of clean, unfolded clothes in laundry baskets as dirty. My floors have more dirt, dust, food and dog hair than I care to really imagine. I couldn’t even guess when I mowed the lawn last. The fridge is woefully empty. And I got stung by a bee yesterday, on the butt. Nothing exceptional is happening, it’s just one of those weeks when things get away from you for no apparent reason.

It’s in these times that I step back, sit down, breathe deep. I admit that weeks like this can wear me thin. But I like to think I’m getting better at finding the balance in it all. I try to take a cue from my daughter, who runs around singing Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds”:

Rise up this morning, smile with the rising sun.
Three little birds, pitch by my doorstep.
Singing sweet songs, of melodies pure and true.
Saying, this is my message to you.
Don’t worry about a thing, ’cause every little thing is gonna be alright.

We read this book every night and sing it whenever the urge hits. It’s a solid reminder to appreciate and to relax. Because even in weeks like these, I am still so proud of my family.

I’m proud of my daughter for asking her little brother right when she got home today if he’s feeling better. I had to pick him up early because of a fever, but her shining light and empathy really did cheer him up.

I’m proud of my son for waving goodbye to his friends and teachers even though he was feeling miserable. His kindness comes from deep within.

I’m proud of my partner for not only picking up a new game on her way home, but also for sitting down with our daughter as soon as they were in the house to play it. Even though her day was long and it would mean an even longer night to finish her work. Our kids get her full attention and watching that sweetness melts me.

I’m proud of myself for seeing the beauty in the chaos this week. I’m remembering it’s who we are that’s most important. That no matter what creeps up, what you let slide or what surprises happen – we got this. As long as we can make each other smile, every little thing really is gonna be alright.