Thinking more about "normal"

Today I have had a little time on my hands at work and have been going through folders on my computer in an effort to start "spring cleaning" here in the office. I have been thinking alot about what is normal for our family, and this post will be a continuation of the post I did just a few days ago.

While sifting through the layers of documents on my computer, I came across a letter I wrote to my precious child the day after her birth. As I was reading the letter, I was saddened to see that promises I made to her that very special day were not being honored today. I sat and looked at the things I said and realized that even though I have not been doing all the things I promised, it didn't mean I love her less or have failed her in some way. It only means that I am human, a woman trying to work full time and be a mom.

During this little exercise, however, I did realize that the "normal" in our life really didn't have to be the "normal" that we experience in the future. The frenetic life that we currently live will slow down, but we need to apply the brakes. The times we spend together can be more engaging and we need to take advantage of those times. The love we have as a family for each other needs to be expressed, daily. Normal can be changed, but it won't change if we sit by and wait for someone else to change it.

Sometimes it is OK to fall short of expectations. As a Type A personality, the quest for perfection can get overwhelming, especially when perfection can never be achieved this side of Heaven. And for as long as I have lived, I have never met SuperMom. My job is to provide for Morgan, teach her about God and the world, love her unconditionally, and remember that the only way she will learn is to experience things herself. I remember today the total love I felt for that precious newborn, and I still love her as much. I suspect I always will.