I have found life as mom to be somewhat of a rollercoaster ride. Some days are isolating, frustrating, and disheartening. Some days are so full of joy I can hardly contain myself. For each of these moments I have my go to’s – the things and people who keep me anchored. They remind that these moments are passing along with whatever mood I find myself in.
More importantly, they help pull me out of myself so I’m able to find joy in motherhood even when it seems hard. They re-ignite my flame and inspire me to rise.
Without further ado:
Diapers and Disciples (Podcast)
I stumbled upon this podcast somewhat recently and have been hooked ever since. Catholic couple, Amber and Cameron, talk about all things Catholic family life in a way that is fun and inspiring. It is the perfect combination of playful and devout. Their love for Jesus, each other, and their family shines through in a relatable way that makes me feel as if I’m sitting around the table with a group of long-lost friends. Diapers and Disciples is the podcast you never knew you needed.
One Beautiful Dream by Jennifer Fulwiler (Book)
This book makes me laugh out loud every time. It’s easy to read, light-hearted, and inspiring. Here’s a snippet from the back cover that sums up my thoughts perfectly:
One Beautiful Dream is the hilarious and highly relatable story of one woman’s attempt to follow her dreams in the midst of – brace yourself, folks – having six babies in eight years. Jennifer writes with raw honesty as she shares her struggles with family life, especially given her background as a career-minded atheist with no siblings of her own. And, in the end, she leaves us empowered by the knowledge that you can have it all, if you’re willing to reimagine what having it all looks like.
This is a book I pull of the shelf when I need to be re-inspired to chase my own personal dreams even in the midst of child-rearing chaos. Jennifer is now doing a comedy tour and has a new book coming out in April! She’s impressive.
What I Wanted to Say by Marie Bellet (Album)
And last but not least, this beautiful album.
When all the feelings of motherhood are building up, I put this album on shuffle. Her songs are about the struggles moms face as they raise kids. Her music inspires awareness of the Divine in the messy, day-to-day chaos. It is raw and relatable. The perfect moodiness of admitting it’s hard coupled with the gentle reminder to give all to God.
Marie Bellet, mother of 9, puts the beauty of sacrificial love into song and inspires me in my pursuit of Love.
Find Your Go-To’s
Find things that inspire you and people who lift you up in your dreams. It is not enough to have friends who are only good for complaining. You need friends who admit that it’s hard, but never cease to inspire you to rise. These three things make me feel heard, understood, and empowered. Find your go-to’s and listen to God as he speaks to you through them.
