Friday, December 31, 2010

ODE TO 2010.

Can you believe that 2010 has come and gone?

Amidst our family time and New Year's celebrations, I have been thinking a bit about 2010. I would call it a year of learning for me. Kate was born early in December 2009 and, most of 2010 was spent learning and growing into a mother of two. Those early months were incredibly challenging, and even now sometimes, I still feel as if I'm stumbling along. I am pretty sure that is just motherhood. I also look back at 2010 full of happiness as I have seen our family grow and progress together. It was a wonderful year for us, as I hope it was for you.

In July, on a total whim, I decided to start writing this blog, "Mamas Who Know." After reading and loving many blogs (which I still read and love) about crafting, decorating, cooking, parenting and day-to-day living, I wanted a forum where I (and maybe others) could be candid about what, I felt, was the most important thing in my life, gospel-centered mothering.

Reluctantly, I pressed, "publish post", and have not regretted it for a minute.

Though I feel no regret, to be completely honest, there are many days when I ask myself, "what am I doing writing a blog about being a gospel-centered mom?" Those are usually the days when I am tired or worn out or am frustrated with my little two, and myself.

Lest you think I've got this mothering business down, let me assure you that I am still just figuring it out with the next mom. What I do know however, is that the gospel makes it 100% easier.

I've also learned from many of you that there are others like me, trying our best. I appreciate that. Thank you for all of your wonderful comments and suggestions on my posts. I have visited many of your blogs and love to see how you applying the gospel in your mothering circle.  I definitely learn from others and on many occasions I have put into practice what you have shared with me on this blog. I thank you for that.

When I wonder if this is a worthy use of my time, I realize just how much this venue has pushed me as a mother and as a person. I am thankful for that nudge I feel to expand myself and become better. If this blog is for nobody else, it is for me.

So, on this, the last day of another year, I wanted to take a moment and say thank you for stopping in and reading my ramblings and thoughts. As I reflect on a wonderful 2010, I consider Mamas Who Know amongst my blessings of the year and I am grateful to you, for contributing to this wonderful experience.

Thank you, thank you.

Erin Shaha

9 comments:

runningfan said...

Thank YOU! I'm so glad to "know" you. You're an inspiration, and yet I know you're a very real, down-to-earth, just-figuring-it-out mama like me. I look forward to another year with you!

Heidi said...

This blog has become one of my faves, Erin. Wow, the word faves just took me back to the streets of Paris with you and Abby and us trying to use as many words in abbreviated form as possible. Ha, o gosh we were such nerds.

Happy New Year!

Unknown said...

I'm glad that you hit "publish"... I get sucked into the other blogs too easily... it's nice to have a moment to THINK.

Mary Anne said...

Well let me tell you one thing...you sure are an inspiration to me. I'm glad to know I'm not the only one often just stumbling through and trying to figure this all out and do my best. I still think you do an amazing job, and I thank you for sharing all your thoughts with us. Sometimes I leave my comments to myself because I have nothing brilliant to say on the matter, or it's something I'm totally not good at, but I love to read! Knowing you're not perfect may just give me the courage to comment more often :)

marta said...

erin, i've told many a friend and family about this blog. i think it's a beauty. i love that you are real and genuine and give us good ideas and gospel oriented messages. seriously, the blogworld is jammed pack with other nonsense. i am so glad you're bringing us the real good stuff. you have quality right here. am looking forward to more in 2011. plus, you really do inspire me to live more thick in righteousness. thank you. happy new year!

Melanie Anne said...

I love your sweet blog! Thank you for taking the time to write and share your testimony and thoughts. It is an inspiration and a breath of fresh air! Happy New Year and best wishes for 2011!

Travelin'Oma said...

You are an influence for good among people you don't even know. Keep writing. Not all mamas know yet, and you explain it genuinely and helpfully. Congratulations on your worthy efforts.

Wendi said...

Perfect day to catch up on your blog and all your exciting news and thoughts! You are one cool mama erin- I plan to visit this blog of yours much more in the coming year!

Brad and Erica said...

Erin, thanks for your honesty and thanks for this blog. It is nice to know that I am not the only one who sometimes feels like she Is just stumbling along, trying to be the best Mom she can. This blog is an ambitious endeavor on top of parenting, but I am glad you are willing to share your insights. Good luck with all of the exciting transitions you have coming up in 2011. Although I wish you were moving across another ocean - closer to us - I am excited for all of you. Thanks!

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