Mama’s Retreat: Refill, Refuel, Recharge

RetreatThis weekend I’m getting away with a group of fellow homeschool mamas for a little retreat, and boy, am I ready.  This mama is running on fumes, limping through the days, struggling in so many ways.  My patience has grown thin.  My temper has grown short.  I’m constantly irritated by normal childishness and daily life, and it’s coming out in my words to those around me.  My children are getting the worst of it since they’re with me all the time, and that makes me really sad.

Yesterday a friend posted this “Mother’s Prayer” on Facebook, and it reminded me of why I am going on this retreat.

Oh give me patience when wee hands
Tug at me with their small demands.
And give me gentle and smiling eyes.
Keep my lips from hasty replies.

And let not weariness, confusion or noise
Obscure my vision of life’s fleeting joys.
So when, in years to come my house is still
No bitter memories its rooms may fill.

— author unknown

I am in desperate need of some time to refill, refuel, and recharge for the sake of the precious little ones entrusted to my care.  I’m looking forward to a weekend of not just fellowship with a group of amazing women, but prayer, worship, and most all, quiet rest.