I am not the mom

I am not the mom who counts down until school is back in session.
Instead I count the amount of days we can get away with playing hooky to be together without my kids falling behind.

I am not the mom who wants to go to the indoor play place.
Instead you’ll find us eating picnic lunches on quilts in the backyard or at a local park,

I am not the mom who plans Pinterest perfect crafts.
Instead I load up once a month on Mondo Llama painting supplies from Target and leave my kitchen table covered in butcher paper so my kids can create. 

I am not the mom who follows her kids around as they play at the park playing with them.
Instead I encourage them to make friends with the kids who just showed up as I continue to read my book, looking up every few pages to make sure I can still see them.

I am not the mom who cuts up fruit, and makes healthy lunches for our trip to the beach.
Instead our cooler is filled with nutella sandwiches and bags of our favorite chips.

I am not the mom who drives each of her children to three separate after school activities a week.
Instead I have a hard rule of one sport per season, per child. 

I am not the mom who is stuck in her way.
Instead I’m a firm believer that change is beneficial and most likely necessary. 

I am not the mom who believes in labels.
Instead I believe our choices do not define us.

I am not the mom who always gets it right.
Instead I ask for forgiveness daily.

I am not the mom who can do it on her own.
Instead I rely heavily on the love and grace of my Savior.