Have I mentioned how glad I am that it's summer in Northern Virginia? The first few months of this year were a little rough for us (figuring out the best learning environment for our oldest), but we're doing much better now. Perhaps not least because we can just head outside and play in the dirt when tensions start running high.
Perhaps you've heard the adage that children are our greatest teachers? Some days I think I must have more to learn than most. I've heard this saying dozens of times since having my first kid, but it has never had much meaning for me until this year. I guess I thought that lessons from children must be easy or obvious. But this year's lessons haven't at all been a passive acceptance of simple concepts - for me, at least. Though perhaps simple in retrospect, I've found in them all kinds of emotional baggage and more personal faults, shortcomings, and mistakes than I was interested in knowing about. On my good days, I also realize I've found more acceptance, patience, and love - for myself and my family.
This sh*t is hard. And if you're ever feeling like you're the only one who feels that way, know you're not alone. My social media feeds are filled with beautiful images and sweet moments (ahem, like the ones here). These are often my favorite ones to post in my own feed because sometimes I'm surprised that even in the midst of a chaotic day, sprinkled with meltdowns, pleading, or yelling (from all parties) - even on those days - we can still have moments like this. Because as imperfect as I am and as often as I fall short, my boys are wonderful examples of what it means to forgive, move on, and be utterly present in this moment of life.
If you find yourself in need of parenting inspiration, I can't recommend enough the Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids resources.
This post is part of a collaborative documentary photography blog circle called Around Our Clocks. We're documenting a day in our life over the course of one year. This month was 9am. Continue the circle by visiting Heather Tully to see her May image.
Nicole Sanchez Photography works with busy parents in Northern Virginia, Washington, DC, and Maryland to create stress-free photo sessions that take all the loving, fun, and chaotic moments of family life to make beautiful photos and films that families will love looking at year after year. Contact me today to start planning a custom photography experience that's perfect for your family.