Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Domestic-ified

So due a friendly "discussion" sweet Andy and I had a few nights back, I've been on this self-proclaimed mission to become more like the Proverbs 31 woman, a woman I have long admired, envied, and placed up there with all of those other heros, whose superpowers were impossible for little 'ol me to obtain. I mean, I might as well desire to fly.
But as self realization hit, which it so often does in the most inopportune of times, I discovered there were many opportunities to better my domestic-ified (always take the liberty to make up new words) self that I let slip right by (admittedly, most of the time, on purpose). Many times without realization (okay, okay. It's realized. There, I said it.), I often seek the help of my emotionally and mentally drained, hard working, minister husband for matters in which I am perfectly capable and should be handling myself.
This is in no way a challenge placed before me by my husband. He would gladly and lovingly help me in all things "housewifish," and has done so since the birth of Eden. But... hello! I am not still nurturing a newborn here. Now that she is 7 months old (I know! I can't believe it either!) I really need to be stepping up my game as a homemaker.
And so for the last week, I've have put forth more of an effort, picking up as I go, staying on top of laundry, digging into a few organizational type projects, and even (gasp!) planning out our menu and cooking at home for the whole week. I know, I know, these are things even single college BOYS can do, but for some reason, not this unorganized, unkempt, unmotivated girl. Somehow the Susie Homemaker gene skipped my generation. (My mother is not only a domestic diva, she is a Housekeeping Queen.)
Anyway, even these minor efforts have made such a difference in my daily outlook on mothering life. I finally feel as if I'm (just ever so slightly) able to balance being a wife, mother, and keeper of the home.
But please don't judge if you happen to stop by, I've warned you, I'm only taking BABY STEPS.
I would just like to please warrant your prayers in my quest for becoming a bit more like the Warrior Woman who is found in the great Book of Wisdom.



A good woman is hard to find, 
   and worth far more than diamonds.
Her husband trusts her without reserve, 
   and never has reason to regret it.
Never spiteful, she treats him generously 
   all her life long.
She shops around for the best yarns and cottons, 
   and enjoys knitting and sewing.
She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places 
   and brings back exotic surprises.
She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast 
   for her family and organizing her day.
She looks over a field and buys it, 
   then, with money she's put aside, plants a garden.
First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, 
   rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started.
She senses the worth of her work, 
   is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.
She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, 
   diligent in homemaking.
She's quick to assist anyone in need, 
   reaches out to help the poor.
She doesn't worry about her family when it snows; 
   their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear.
She makes her own clothing, 
   and dresses in colorful linens and silks.
Her husband is greatly respected 
   when he deliberates with the city fathers.
She designs gowns and sells them, 
   brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops.
Her clothes are well-made and elegant, 
   and she always faces tomorrow with a smile.
When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, 
   and she always says it kindly.
She keeps an eye on everyone in her household, 
   and keeps them all busy and productive.
Her children respect and bless her; 
   her husband joins in with words of praise:
"Many women have done wonderful things, 
   but you've outclassed them all!"
Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. 
   The woman to be admired and praised 
   is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God.
Give her everything she deserves! 
   Festoon her life with praises!**

**I understand that this woman is so much more than just a good homemaker, but like I said, baby steps.

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