Motherhood. . .

Is much harder than I thought it would be. I LOVE my children and being a mom. After all, I know it's the most important job there is. But since becoming a mom, I've realized I'm more high maintenance than I thought. And I have less energy than I thought I did, too. And that's ok. That's why I've decided on two children and not five! :)

I saw this quote by Elder Ballard on a friend's blog and it was a great reminder to me and gives me comfort that my struggling is normal.

"First, recognize that the joy of motherhood comes in moments.  There will be hard times and frustrating times.  But amid the challenges, there are shining moments of joy and satisfaction. . . .

Second, don't overschedule yourselves or your children. . . . Families need unstructured time when relationships can deepen and real parenting can take place.  Take time to listen, to laugh, and to play together.

Third, even as you try to cut out the extra commitments, sisters, find some time for yourself to cultivate your gifts and interests.  Pick one or two things that you would like to learn or do that will enrich your life, and make time for them.  Water cannot be drawn from an empty well, and if you are not setting aside a little time for what replenishes
you, you will have less and less to give to others, even to your children."

-M. Russell Ballard (from Hilary Weeks' Bedtime and Naptime..., p.49)

So...what do YOU do to replenish yourself? I've noticed I will go a long time before realizing I haven't done anything, and usually a meltdown is near. You know how people always joke about "getting in touch with your inner child?" My therapist (that sounds so lame) told me a couple months ago that we all need to do this. We need to take time to be as carefree and creative and fun as we were as children. And how good it is for us. Any thoughts?