Very recently, I was going through my cookbooks and came across The Joy Of Cooking by Irma S. Rombauer which is, for those familiar with it, like an encyclopedia of cooking. It literally has thousands of recipes, from basic ones to more elaborate ones.
And I just started thinking, “Wouldn’t it be great if there was a book called The Joy of Mothering, with all kinds of recipes on how to be a mother?”
And the thought made me giggle as there really is no recipe book on how to raise a child. It is just trial and error. Sure, you’ll find books on the subject that can help with theory but when it comes to practice, it is a whole new ballgame.
I read consistency is key. And it is, theoretically, absolutely right. Now, put this in practice when you’ve been looking after your kids 12 to 14 hours a day, and out goes consistency as trying to keep your children alive and well becomes the ultimate mission.
Think of it as refereeing. You’re the the one holding the whistle and they are the little players (very mischievous ones, as it so happens); and your job is to lead them from point A to point B without a scratch, bump or a complete meltdown. When this is done, repeat the action another 20 times. Now, add exhaustion and stress to the mix, and there you have it. A recipe for a completely chaotic, messy yet beautiful day of mothering.
And I wouldn’t have it any other way because, all joking aside, these moments will be the ones I miss when my child is all grown up. So for now, I’m just going to sit back, drink my gallon size cup of coffee and enjoy the wonderful ride.
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