My "Gem" - Baltimore, MD - July 2011

I caught myself thinking last night "I wonder if I'll ever run another marathon now that I'm a mom. I mean when is there time to go running, I don't have a jogging stroller, It's more important for the Hub to have time to work out while I watch the Monkey or get dinner ready, I wish I'd just run one more..." I mean I was really lamenting the loss of the races I could have/would have/should have run.

I read this this morning and it really put me in a better state of mind. Not to say that working out, being healthy, and having goals isn't important, but WOW, look what I've gained! Look at my little "Gem"...

Motherhood: My Only Gems

“She came tonight as I sat alone, the girl I used to be…

And she gazed at me with her earnest eye and questioned reproachfully;

Have you forgotten the many plans and hopes that I had for you?The career, the splendid fame, and all the wonderful things to do?Where is the mansion of stately height with all of its gardens rare?

The silken robes that I dreamed for you and the jewels in your hair?

And as she spoke, I was very sad for I wanted her please with me…This slender girl from the shadowy past the girl that I used to be So gently rising, I took her hand, and guided her up the stair

Where peacefully sleeping, my babies lay innocent, sweet, and fair.

And I told her that these are my only gems, and precious they are to me;That silken robe is my motherhood of costly simplicity.And my mansion of stately height is love, and the only career I know

Is serving each day in these sheltered walls for the dear ones who come and go.

And as I spoke to my shadowy guest, she smiled through her tears at me.

And I saw that the woman that I am now, pleased the girl I used to be.

- Author Unknown

Quoted in Womanly Dominion by Mark Chanski

Till next time,

Bon Voyage!