Surviving As The ‘Older’ Mom

{Today’s guest post is from my long time friend, Beth Holmes. Beth is a mom and a writer and well. . .she wears many other hats as a minister’s wife. I am thrilled to have her here at Grace for Moms today.}

I came to the world of motherhood later than some. Having been married for almost 14 years when Henry was born, we had to start over again learning who we are as a couple, as a family, and for me as a wife and mother.

I don’t fit the profile of a “typical” mom of an almost three-year old boy. It takes me a few seconds longer than the other moms to get up and down in our Kindermusik class. My closest friends are not in line with me in the nursery pick-up on Sunday mornings.

But God is teaching me some important lessons through these days, and maybe my experiences can encourage those of you who find yourselves the “older” mom at story time.

1) The toddler years are only for a season.

I remind myself that these years are a very short season of life, and they will pass quickly. Little arms will not hang onto my legs forever, and someday I will go to the bathroom by myself.

2) If I am intentional, I can continue to pursue things that interest me.

Some days I feel like my brain is turning to mush. Before Henry was born, I worked in various academic settings. Then I started watching “Sesame Street,” “Pocoyo,” and Toy Story. By making small goals for myself, I have learned to finish a book, practice an instrument, or try a new recipe.

3) Friends who have “been there, done that” are very important to my mental state.

I recently spent an hour and a half of precious nap time talking with a friend whose children are now in school. Sharing my struggles made me feel so much better. She assured me that I am normal and this will pass. I needed someone who could identify with where I am and cheer me on to the other side.

4) Continuing a romantic relationship with my husband is possible.

Romance is possible, just different. We have fewer date nights because we not only have to pay for the date, we have to pay for a babysitter. But that doesn’t keep us from looking for free/inexpensive date ideas, and saving a little for something special.

Being the ‘older’ mother does have its advantages. I have endured many trials up until the point I became a mom that have opened my eyes to the lessons God can teach us through each season if we remain open to his instruction.

“The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.” Psalm 19:8

What about you? Whether younger or older, what lesson is God teaching you through these days of motherhood?

Beth Holmes is a wife and mother living in Owensboro, Kentucky. She thinks life is best served with good books, good music, and good coffee. You can find her on her blog A Fine Close Weave at bethholmes.wordpress.com