Truth be told though finding blog worthy topics combined with the time to actually write them is a bit of a juggling act. And while we've been enjoying ourselves nothing of particular excitement has really gone on.
Adam and I spent the better part of the month of August travelling to visit family, two weeks of which were combined with Jim. In late July Jim was OFFICIALLY called to the bar (that means he's now a real live lawyer). But otherwise we keep trucking along and enjoying ourselves. Bracing for the onslaught of winter which, mercifully, has yet to truly make itself manifest and for now we're enjoying a beautiful fall.
Last weekend was our church's semi-annual General Conference. It's a weekend where we get the opportunity to hear from our church leaders and they speak on a variety of pressing and poignant subjects. At the end I always leave feeling that my batteries have been charged and that I have the inner fortitude to confront the world for another six months. This Conference was wonderful in much the same way and there were many talks that spoke peace and comfort to my heart. You can find them at www.lds.org if you feel curious. But there was an underlying theme that I noticed, and couldn't help but feel conflicted about. After a dear friend asked me her thoughts on the conference, I realized my thoughts and feelings were beginning to take shape.
Anyone who has had the patience to keep a half hearted eye on this blog will know that since entering this role of mother I have not been spared my share of inner conflict. I think since becoming a mom I struggle with this sense of worldly inadequacy (ie I'm "just a mom") coupled with a general sense of unease at the thought of educational or career pursuits outside of the home (but what about my BABY???).
I love this last conference because in a lot of ways the sense I got was "it's ok to be home. It's ok to be a mom. You're not less of a person. You may not be making financial contributions but you're work is equally valuable". But by the same token, the whole conference I wanted to scream from every rooftop of every chapel and stake center "DON'T YOU DARE LIMIT ME!! I CAN BE WHATEVER I WANT TO BE!!!!".
While I appreciate the sense of peace and validation as a mother, my inner achiever still isn't truly satisfied. And I guess no one has all the answers. But it was comforting to be reassured that although the world at large might not view what I'm doing as particularly noteworthy, I am doing the most important work I can be. As for the rest...I'll keep you posted.
Oh and that Adam kid? Yeah, he's still adorable. Most recently he's discovered belly buttons. If he sees yours he will absolutely poke his finger in it and if you ask him to show you his, he gets the most adorable smirk as he slowly lifts his shirt. Who knew belly buttons were so interesting? We took some family photos on the last truly hot day of the year and I'm kind of in love with them. Enjoy the photographic update below.
Post thanksgiving fun
Happy Thanksgiving!
