Changing Your World... one diaper at a time

I've been struggling a lot lately with being home all the time with the kids. I am a person who thrives on busyness and tasks and to-do lists. I haven't had the same kind (or any, really) of accountability at home as I have had in the workplace (bosses, deadlines, etc), and I have felt out of place a lot of the time. I know that being home is where I want to be, where God wants me to be, but I have been struggling to find joy in being a stay-at-home mommy.

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to read Marla Taviano's book "Changing Your World One Diaper at a Time". It arrived at the right moment, when I was reaching one of my dark moments, and it brought light and perspective to my understanding of my current situation. Marla compiled the thoughts and experiences of many moms (and moms-to-be), as well as corresponding Scriptures, to put together an honest look at motherhood through the first year of life.

This book encouraged me, especially when she shared how other moms stepped out of the "busyness" of the workplace and into the home and struggled (just like me) to find their purpose in the everyday. Reading this book reminded me of how lucky and blessed I am to be able to stay home with my kids - that they are only little for a short time and that I should soak up as much time with them as I can get now, because the time will pass so quickly.

One of my favorite chapters in this book was Chapter 10 - Changing Your World. Marla addressed the issue of dreams (life goals) in this chapter, reminding me that God is the One who places dreams in my heart. Sometimes He provides opportunities for me to live out those dreams today (i.e. being a Mommy - staying home with my kids) and other times He asks me to wait on fulfilling the dreams, but to enjoy the season He has me in right now. I can do "little" things to work towards my "later" dreams, so that when the time is right I am able to see those dreams fulfilled, but I need to focus mainly on my current season, enjoying it for all the time God gives me in it.

Thank you, Marla, for taking the time to put together this book. It has truly encouraged my heart and reminded me of what a blessing God has given me in being able to stay at home with my kiddos. I will continue to come back to this book for my own encouragement, as well as to encourage others through their struggles in mommyhood.