Even though we’ve technically been moved in for a month, we are still moving in. In the past, Hank and I would stay up until around 3am for a few nights in a row to get everything moved in, decorations out, pictures on the wall, etc. But this move has been different. Part of the reason for this is that we have been out of town twice since then and also because our cabinet maker is TWO months behind. Not sure how/why this happened, but we finally will be completely done with them on Tuesday and I could not be happier about it.
Hank has a big fall tour coming up, but before then, we are planning on taking a vacation together. Etta will be a year old by then, so I’ll be able to leave her. (Please, extended breastfeeders don’t email me, I know. I’ve read. I know. I can’t. It’s not for me/us.)
We were out the other night (probably somewhere super romantic like Home Depot) and had there realization that, while we may get really rested while on vacation, we will be coming home to the same things that are keeping us tired now. The kids are small, so they naturally require a lot of attention during the day, and don’t exactly sleep in (ahem, 6:30am.) Plus, Henry inherited Hank’s inability to 1. talk quietly and 2. walk quietly. I swear, it is a herd of freaking elephants when he comes down the stairs first thing in the morning which wakes up the rest of the house.
I’m trying to live in the moment, and not just “exist,” waiting on whatever it is the future that I think will make my life better/easier/happier. I’ve realized that this busy “season” may very well be our new normal. I thought it was just the renovation, but so many things happened at the same time about a year ago that it’s possible that this may be the way it is going to be from here on out.
Hank is busier than ever. It’s awesome, but it’s hard at times. When he’s not on tour he’s busy doing session/studio work for records, or writing songs with people. He has to try really hard not to book himself up 15 hours a day, 7 days a week. It’s the blessing and the curse of him doing what he loves for a living. He never wants to retire, and I’m so thankful that he loves what he does for a living. He’s really great at taking time to spend with the family, even though I know he feels the pressure of providing for a family of five doing something that few people who try actually succeed in doing.
Now that we have Etta there is just more activity. Sometimes the only goal I have all day is to get a nap, and it hasn’t happened in over a week. But I’ve realized that if I’m not going to be chronically exhausted, i’ve got to make some changes.
I’ve been drinking this amazing tea in the afternoon when I get tired, but I know that sleep would be even healthier for me.
So, as simple as it sounds, I’m making myself go to bed earlier. Moms, you know why this is hard. Night time is my only alone time. I’m a bit of an introvert so it’s my “recharge” time. I mean, I love the late nights alone. I make a cup of tea, I organize something, unload a few boxes, put up shelf liner, etc. But the lack of sleep is taking it’s toll. (is that how you spell toll? I’m so tired I can’t remember…) Yesterday I lost my keys, found them, and lost them again INSIDE MY FREAKING CAR within the same 5 minute period.
So anyhow, I’m committing to being in bed by 11 every night. This should make a huge difference. It’s so strange how it’s so difficult to do something that 1. I know is good for me and 2. I know makes me feel so much better; but this 4-5 hours of sleep at night ain’t cutting it anymore.
I’m also going to let myself relax more, and maybe use this guy more often. I’ve used it once since we moved in and it’s glorious. I’m 5’10” so this is the first tub that I have actually ever fit into.
Here’s another little nook in our home that I love…If you come over to visit it’s where you can hang your hat, purse, coat, etc. Isn’t it cozy?
Goodnight friends,
