Chris & Jamie
We are one of the quick ones!!! Our profile was activated in the beginning of August. We didn't have many contacts and were a little disappointed and discouraged since we heard so many people got a ton of contacts right away.
On September 7th, we got an email from a young couple who was due in just 3 weeks! They had been looking for a family for their son for many more ...
Parenting requires time. Because you need to support your child, provide for your child, and chauffer your child, you may feel that your time is not your own. Throughout your child's life, you spend time teaching, encouraging, motivating, and loving your child. All of this takes time and effort, but it is all worth it.
The time you used to spend doing what you loved to do--whenever you wanted to do it--is no more. You may feel that your life is more rushed and hectic, more chaotic. Some parents find it exhilarating and fast-paced. Other parents may find it overwhelming. But there are ways to slow things down and make your schedule more manageable.
Each Day is a New Day: Taking one day at a time is important. If you feel overwhelmed thinking of the long-term--even if your long-term is a week or month ahead--don't think about it until it's necessary. Just get through each day and know that each day is a new day. Think of it as a day to start over, a day to be refreshed and reenergized. Each day, list out what you need to get done that day, the essentials. Then list out what things you'd like to get done if you have the time. Once you accomplish your daily goals, begin working on preparing for the next day.
Schedule Personal Time: Make sure you take some time for yourself throughout the day, even if it's just 5 minutes. Those 5 minutes will be needed and can help you get back on track and motivated to continue marking things off your to-do list. In your 5 minutes, do something you love to do that calms you. For example: start a book, take a powernap, or go for a short walk.
Get Organized: Getting organized is crucial to managing your time. Make sure you have a calendar or a day-planner where you can keep track of all your responsibilities. Even consider placing a large wall calendar in your kitchen or living room. Have your entire family write their schedules and appointments on it. It will be easier to keep track of everyone that way.
While your free time may be minimal in the beginning of parenthood, you'll find that as your child grows and starts his/her own life, you'll have more free time for yourself. Parenting is a worthwhile and enriching experience. Enjoy your children. Enjoy life.
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