I’ve really been into podcasts lately and last week I shared a few of my favorites. But, I have a new favorite on my list: Grace Talks|Inspiration & Encouragement for Women by Edie Wadsworth (her blog is Life in Grace). Because podcasts are strictly audio I’m inspired in a totally deeper way, especially compared to reading a blog post (with photos). This has been a huge welcomed change for me, mostly because it’s so easy to hitch a ride on the Jealous Train when online.
Something I didn’t expect to happen as a podcast listener is for me to change so much as an individual.
I usually listen to podcasts during naptime a few days each week. They’re a really wonderful way for something new to spark inside me, especially if I need a perspective-change. Being at home with two babies is one of the most difficult tasks I’ve ever had, probably because I love our children so much and want the best for them. It takes a lot of intentionality and consistency to raise children well. So, podcasts have quickly become my naptime BFF.
I want to remember this chapter of life I’m in. Like all past chapters, it’s fleeting; it won’t last long, and I’ll often remember it as easier than when in the thick of it. My current chapter of life is one where affirmation for myself as a parent will come to me in the future. My current chapter is one where I get to live out the awesomeness of parenthood. My current chapter is one where I get to nurture, feed, and encourage my children on a daily basis.
For Christmas 2014 I received a red leather journal and it’s one of my favorite gifts. (I’ve gotten smarter as I’ve gotten older, and any gift that helps me refine who I am or better serve my family/friends is what I wish for.) Within this journal I write down my prayers, ideas and daily musings. But I’ve also been taking notes on the podcasts I listen to.
In Edie’s first podcast, A Life of Calling, she describes our calling as “that thing I do when I daydream”, which is such an interesting perspective. How many times do we daydream about X but actually spend our lives doing Y?
It used to be such a struggle for me that I hit pause on my handmade businesses so I could focus on my family — but after I spent some time reflecting on what Edie shared I now think differently.
Isn’t what I daydreamed about exactly what I’m doing with my life? Taking care of my babies, creating things (remember when I shared how I used to paint rocks with nail polish as a kiddo?), and my best friend is my super handsome husband. So what that I’m not designing new product or sewing ruffles. OF COURSE I miss that chapter of my life, but I don’t see it as fully closed. Besides, I’ve happily accepted that creating can happen in the kitchen, in the nursery or in our neighborhood. A bonus, for sure.
I have many struggles and one of them is (has been? could this really be behind me?) wondering what my purpose is. I often thought I had to continue with my handmade shops in order to feel like a creative person, when really I’m still living a creative life I’m just also surrounded by my children.
I want to remember these times as great times. And the next time I need to be inspired in a deeper way you betcha I’m going to find myself a podcast to listen to, because I know I’ll need to be and I know there’s one out there ;)
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Maggie!!! Can I tell you something? My daydream is what you do every day. I want to badly to be a stay at home mom, and be able to create. I am such a creative person, but do not find the time during the day to let it all out. I am a teacher and mom to {almost} 4 year old twin girls. By the time I do my daily things, I am zonked out. My absolute dream is to be able to stay home.
While I am sure it is difficult, keep in mind (I KNOW that you do) that you are so lucky, and life is grand! You are doing an amazing job!
Thank you Kari! ♥
Maggie, I am totally into podcasts, too! I love that I can put my earbuds in, not wake the kids, and get stuff done with my hands! I also love hearing their voices. There’s something about it that makes me feel like they’re talking straight to me. :)
OHHHH, who are you listening to right now?
Maggie,
You are doing something creative with your life. You are a very inspiring person. Your book in creativity is not ending…your just in the middle. You are going to create something everyday, even if it is not with your self it is with your children. Believe it or not your children are watching with their tiny little eyes everything and learning from you. That is beautiful. To be a stay at home mom and creating memories day in and day out. Once they get a little older, perhaps even age to go to school you will have time to create with your hands again. Even if you are itching to do it now! Just keep taking notes and this too shall pass. Listening to podcasts are a great idea! Maybe you should create one of your own! You already have a fan here!! Just remember: don’t just dream, do and don’t ever give up what you love doing. Thanks for sharing today
Christine
This is such an encouraging comment… wow… thank you so much for taking the time to write me! I’ve found journaling not only helps me keep track of my ideas but also helps me process what I’m feeling/thinking. Sometimes the things I write down turn into real, tangible things in my life. Other times they are a passing thought and I continue onward. Thank you for being a light!
You are the most creative person I know. I could not be more proud of you or blessed by you.
Keep up the good work, dream girl.
#BLUSH
Thanks babe.