Madness

My life seems to be in a constant state of upheaval. My husband is out of town often, and that leaves me to deal with our three children, the house, the groceries, errands, paying the bills...etc, etc. by myself. I have been feeling overwhelmed lately. I don't know if it's because I have been really busy at work or because the kids are acting nuts lately (moon changes?). It seems odd, (if you know our family) but "D" is the only one of my kids who is behaving himself and not acting out. "M" and "A" are fighting constantly, whining, talking back and just plain being defiant. I am at the end of my rope with them and am finding it a struggle to find my focus and keep my calm. I am actually trying to take some ques from my friend Kim. I am trying to learn by her example and find the positive in any and all situations...
I bought a beginner yoga DVD and am trying to find the time to do it each night...you know, when I actually have 20 minutes to myself. It seems like I only get those 20 minutes when the kids are in bed...after 9pm. So, more often than not, I don't have the energy or the willpower to do the DVD that late at night. But, I have been taking a few minutes with my new Teatopia tea (mother's day gift from Dave) and a good book and lose myself...that seems to help. I also try to do one nice thing a day for someone else. It could be a stranger or a close friend, but when I do these "random acts of kindness" it makes me feel good about myself and sets a more positive tone for the day. For example, there is a blog I read daily, and have for months. This woman's blog is very amusing and I really enjoy it. Recently her son was in the hospital for a few weeks, and she was having a difficult time, but making the most of it. Keep in mind I have never met this woman (she lives in the US). I have one of those italian charm link bracelets with my kids pictures on the charms. I really like it. So, I had one made for her (with her kids pictures, not mine!) and as soon as it comes in...I will ship it out. I am very excited for her to receive it. I think she will really like it. I have also started giving "birthday chocolates" to people at work (if I know it's their birthday) So far, I have 35 coworkers that get "birthday chocolates" from me. They really seem to appreciate the sentiment and that makes me feel really good. I think Kim is right....there is a lot a positive in this world...you just have to make a conscience choice to find it everyday. I am going to try to make it a point everyday to find something positive...even if my kids are acting completely nuts!