Instead

Every evening I have high hopes for the upcoming day.

I’ll have a better attitude.

I’ll be super efficient.

I’ll make better choices.

Yesterday was no different. Except, as it usually does, life interfered with my high hopes.

——–
Instead of getting a full night’s sleep, I spent most of the night beside my son as he coughed and cried.

Instead of greeting my husband and toddler with a smile, I headed back to bed with a snarl.

Instead of checking things off my 33-Day Challenge list, I sat, exhausted, and just watched the boys play.

Instead of planning my lessons, I read Click, Clack, Moo for the hundred thousandth time.

Instead of writing a post, I called my mom and emailed my mother-in-law.

Instead of responding to blog comments, I wiped Theo’s nose and kissed away his tears. (yes, they’re both sick.)

Instead of running errands and cooking, we bundled up the boys to get subs for dinner.

Instead of doing the dishes, I sat and held my husband’s hand as we listened to the silence of two sleeping boys (knock on wood.)

——-

My attitude wasn’t impressive. I was the opposite of efficient.

But in retrospect, I think I mostly made the better choices.

7 Responses to Instead
  1. Life As Wife
    November 20, 2011 | 7:53 am

    “Instead” is sometimes the best word ever.

    • Jessica@Team Rasler
      November 21, 2011 | 11:22 pm

      How very true. If only I could learn to embrace it each time!

  2. JDaniel4's Mom
    November 21, 2011 | 6:18 am

    It sounds like you made all the right choices! I hope the boys feel better soon!

    • Jessica@Team Rasler
      November 21, 2011 | 11:22 pm

      Thanks! One is on the mend and one is better but still not sleeping. Our fingers are crossed for a sleep-filled Thanksgiving!

  3. Gramma
    November 21, 2011 | 4:52 pm

    Hurry north and we will try to spread out the hugs/care and leave keys to a quiet cottage for the parentals.

    • Jessica@Team Rasler
      November 21, 2011 | 11:23 pm

      We may have to take the Super Screamer to the cottage with us. He has been averaging 2 miserably awake hours each night since you left. Averaging. sigh.

  4. Pamela
    December 9, 2011 | 2:53 pm

    I had that same feeling this week. The one where I pulled my back out and my gal was exhibiting massive two’s I do-it myselfness, and I was exhibiting two’s level of patience. Ah, some days you just get through the best you can. And forgive yourself for not meeting up to the plan you had. I always love reading your posts; you are so genuine and relatable!