You know it's time for self assessment when...
Monday, April 12, 2010 You make up a batch of whipped cream- no not for company or a fancy meal- just to eat it by yourself!
You throw a shoe at the dog because he smells.
You tell your son you're putting 10 minutes on the timer and secretly put 8 just to be spiteful.
Oh, oops, that was all me! Who is spiteful to a 5 year old you ask with doe-like innocence and wonder in your eyes. That would be me, I am sorry to say.
Mommies, when is the last time you checked in with yourself to see how you're doing? Or better yet, when is the last time you checked in with another girlfriend to see how each of you are doing? Time has got to be on the list of endangered resources these days, and I know it can be hard to find even a half hour to sit down and take stock. But if you can bear the thought- just hear me out for a sec- if you can 
find some time to be quietbear the thought of leaving the dishes in the sink and the laundry unfolded just a little while longer. If you can let the kids run in the yard *gasp* semi-unsupervised, or *bigger gasp* set them down in front of a show for a little bit, maybe you can find someone to talk to, to pray with to kvetch, moan, cry or laugh with for just a little bit. Or take the time to sit alone and be quiet.
Quiet reflection and talks with girlfriends- I have been missing this big time lately. Big, big time. With all of the business there just hasn't been time for the "frivolous" self-care or self-assessment. But guess what, I'm a stingier mom, and a grumpier wife when I foolishly assume that it's impossible for me to make time for me. If I don't sit down to think, journal, pray, trouble soon follows. I am slowly learning that.
Just these past few days I've had occassion to talk with some on my closest friends about hte things weighing down my heart. How encouraging! It reminded me of just how much I need this.
So one of the wagons that I am jumping back on is this one: taking care of my heart. Are you taking care of yours? If yes, how? I am still trying to figure this all out!