3.24.2011

Learning to Let Go

Over the past 3 years of being a mother, I think it's only been within the last few months that I've learned to let go--not of my little one's hand or heart or that sort of thing, but the little stuff.  The stuff that unfortunately clutters my mind and worries me for no reason, like how I'm going to manage to get laundry done and the house cleaned.

Case in point: this weekend is S's birthday.  As much as I love to decorate and entertain, I knew I wouldn't be up for it this year, with being pregnant and having just arrived home from a major trip to Florida with a nearly 3-year-old in tow.
Just dying to get into that big can of Play Doh
So I just let it go.  It actually wasn't too hard.  A few months back, I told myself that it was ok to have a low-key family party, just a few foods, sloppy homemade cupcakes, pre-made decorations (oh the horror!) and NO PRESSURE!  And I eagerly accepted help from family who offered to bring food and drink.
I even let the birthday boy help with the decorating.  Can't wait to see what other ideas he comes up with in the next few days.
I'm thanking myself right now for not taking on the stress of a complicated party.  Don't get me wrong, there will still be decorations and gift bags, but it's been more relaxed and enjoyable, putting it all together a bit at a time.  So what if my veggie dip is not homemade, or I nixed the hummus.

Moms, I think this is really the best gift we can give ourselves, the gift of letting go. Even if it's just every once in a while.  And of course, this does not refer to letting ourselves go!


8 comments:

French Elegant Jewelry said...

Now I don't even decorate my 12 year old loves to do it so she has been the offical decorator for the past 3 years. I try to go simple too the kids sure don't care and I really don't want to keep up with the Jones. I also tell my friends that worry about their house being a mess when I come over that I come to see them not their house. :)

Heidi said...

AMEN! I used to feel so much pressure to do parties each year. Finally, I just had to tell myself that it wasn't necessary. The kids are fine with it and I feel much better too!

•´.¸¸.•¨¯`♥.Mrs. Cox.♥´¯¨•.¸¸.´• said...

{giggling at Naomi's comment}
It really is the best - letting go, that is. Last year Charlie's birthday was very low key, just grandparents. No theme, no crazy gourmet attempts. And it was so relaxing and wonderful.

I think I might just alternate her birthdays like that. How refreshing!

I'm sure his birthday will be fantastic :)

Ammie said...

LOL. I do love his charming decoration, and I bet he is so happy to be helping.
Amen to the rest!

Gem said...

I know what fab parties you throw and all the great crafts and dishes you make so I would be bummed...j/k! Seriously, you are so right. I always feel like I have to throw parties and go all-out like my friends do, but in the end, what really matters is being together as a family...

Bonnie said...

I like the little red streamer taped to the door! Could that have possibly been taped there by a little boy?? so cute! I understand the need for going simple sometimes...I totally get it. I've done both kind of parties. I have definitely toned it down a bit on our celebrations.

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