Reflection and gratitude

I'm lying here in my bed reflecting back on today. And, I am so thankful that I have 2 incredible Grandparents that are not only still able, but completely willing to lend a hand and help out. This morning my Grandma picked Hunter up and took him to school while I got the little ones ready then my Grandpa came and used his weed eater to tackle our jumanji yard. I dropped the 2 babies off with my Grandma (at her request!) so I could come home and clean house and finish up projects I've been longing to do. My Grandpa finished manicuring our lawn with an impeccable mow just before the sky literally opened up and dumped rain.
Jared came home to an immaculately clean house and most importantly a happy wife. I've been feeling so overwhelmed and unsatisfied lately, a day to myself to finish tasks was just what the Dr ordered. It feels great to have accomplished something! Something that has been nearly impossible having two kids home with me all day and frankly it left me feeling defeated most days. The good news is I've identified the problem and am going to be hiring some help so I can clean house, run errands or {gasp} do something for myself like work out! Not to mention trying to get my photography business up and running takes some time away from the kids so we will need some babysitters. After today I figure we (Jared or I) need a good 5-6 hours a week to clean the house top to bottom and keep up with our acre of land.
It felt weird at first, a stay at home mom who needs a sitter? I used to think that was just for the housewives of desperate county.  But now I'm not embarrassed by it,
Yes I stay home but that doesn't mean I don't need a break from a 1yr & 2 yr old, and that definitely doesn't mean I can simultaneously take care of my kids and keep the house& yard running in tip top shape. I've proven that that's nearly impossible without the aid of some much needed angels {grandparents} mine or the kids'! :-)
Whenever I tell my Grandparents I feel bad or guilty for accepting so much help (especially when they refuse to be paid for it) my Grandma always replies "Hun, let us do it, we love it and some day we won't be able to."  And, unfortunately I know that's true. Today during the time I had to myself I also did another very important task I've been meaning to do and find impossible with kids. I went to visit my other Grandma, Nana. She's been in a home now for a few months and unfortunately I have only been to see her once. While sitting on the couch next to her watching tv as she was bundled up in a blanket staring off into space, I was reminded just how quickly life can change your daily activities and abilities. Nana has Alzheimer's and is not capable of taking care of herself  anymore.
I think my Grandparents understand that every day is a gift and treasure the time they can spend with their Great Grandboys cultivating a special relationship with each of them that they will remember. And, those memories are so important and equally precious.
I want to thank the both of you from the bottom of my heart! I will sleep soundly tonight knowing I was able to finish some very important things today.


Jamie Brown
sent from my iPhone