I have been thinking lately about how being a mother has changed my life in unexpected ways. For instance I have realized that any weaknesses I have are magnified as a mother. I've always known I am disorganized, but that is more readily apparent by the state of my house. And even though I thought I was a patient person, my patience is tried daily and I don't always pass the test. But the good news is that I am trying to improve these weaknesses. After all, being a mother is all about on-the-job training and there is no deadline.
But also unexpectedly I have found that motherhood brings out hidden talents. I think I have become a pretty good cook because I am always on the lookout for healthy recipes. This talent is not always appreciated by my children, but someday they will thank me for not giving them junk food all the time. Additionally, since I have a son who is always asking me to draw something, my artistic abilities have improved. I wouldn't say that I'm a Van Gogh or anything, but I have moved beyond stick figures. The birthday cakes I decorated for Lance's and Luke's birthday party were a personal triumph, something I didn't think I could do until I really had to do it. Other things I have learned as a mother: making actual vehicles out of Legos and how to explain good vs. evil in Star Wars. One thing that I refuse to learn: how to play Mario Brothers on Nintendo DS. Lance always wants me to help him, but I just tell him that he is better at it than me.
I'm sure there will be many more lesson to learn and hidden talents to discover as the years go by. Motherhood: a great adventure.
