not settling

This is a new kind of post for me...it's about marriage, and children, and keeping your soul fed.

Almost a year ago, our lives changed...in an amazing way, yet also a challenging way. Sure, everyone told us nothing would ever be the same once we had kids. Of course, we nodded in agreement, but not in complete understanding. Our lives as individuals and as a couple have changed drastically. Granted, I would never trade what we have...but admittedly, there are days that I miss our life from before. When we could be completely selfish, when we could leave the house without having to check for a paci, for a diaper, for a toy, for a hairbow, for.... When we could plan the day without a naptime. When we could clean the house so...easily! When the house wouldn't seem completely disorganized ALL THE TIME. When I could have a cup of coffee and not have to worry if it would affect my little one. Ok...you get the point. Life has changed. (Please give me grace and know that having our daughter has been one of the best things that have ever happened to us...I was nursing her just an hour ago and looking down at her and thinking...she is heaven. This post is coming from the heart and I'm sharing one of the challenges of parenthood.)

This weekend Jason and I were discussing our marriage and how it has changed. I was sharing with him how the "newness" feels gone and I'm sad about it. I asked him what he thought has been the biggest change in our marriage, and he replied, "having Bella." Of course, she's changed our lives...so I pondered, "Well, what can we do to bring back a little bit of us?"

Here's my idea...

We are going to have one night each week set aside for ourselves. For example, this week, I get one glorious night to myself...I already have a list of what I wanna do...take a photography class, go fabric shopping, work on my sewing, take a pilates class, go to a coffee shop and read (oh, how I miss that!), go to the mall and actually be able to try clothes on. And the next week, Jason gets a night to himself which I'm sure will consist of different activities than mine. :)

I think this may just help our souls and our marriage, and in turn our parenting for our precious girl. Bring on Wednesday!!!