Friday, May 8, 2009

of crocs, floss and duct tape

"We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude."
-Cynthia Ozik

I got my red crocs for Mother's Day last year. Secretly: I didn't like them, and didn't really want them. But because I didn't want to hurt my childrens' feelings, I put on my best smile and embraced the wearing of plastic shoes with enough sweetness to make your teeth hurt. Now? I'm finding that I've worn them so much over the past year that I'm mourning my future without them. They have holes in the bottoms and have worn very thin in other places.

I am also grateful for floss. (Mom? Are you reading this?) I used to hate it enough to wrap and wrap and wrap the little box around a very heavy rock and toss it into the nearest stream (or toilet). I had to spend an entire summer walking a mile each way to the dentist every morning after breakfast just to brush and floss my teeth because I lied about using it, when 13 cavities between my teeth told the real story.

Duct Tape. Need I say more? When you're out of duct tape, it's like not having milk in the house. I used to think about doing the following, but never acted on it:

But mostly what I'm grateful for, that I take for granted on a daily basis, is the time I get to spend being a mother. Every single minute is a gift. Even the rotten ones. I am at peace with my chaotic, cluttered, unorganized home when I look around and see evidence of the children that live here. I know that this is what's right for me.

I'm humbled by and grateful for my badge of motherhood.

10 comments:

Jo Jo said...

Really thoughtful post so near mother's day. Happy Sunday, by the way. Love you. You're a great mother, and your kids are just as sweet.

shirlgirl said...

Nice post, Jenny. Loved the picture of the poor child taped to the wall--funny! And a very Happy Mother's Day to you. Hope you are spoiled all day by your wonderful children.

xxxxxxxxxxx said...

Happy Mother's Day Sunday Jenny.

BTW: Love duct tape, it is the most important tool in my toolbox.

Crocs: the ugliest show on earth, I don't care, I love them, I have 2 pairs and wear them daily. I found that I can work longer and not have hurting feet after. But don't scrimp and buy the crocks, they are not the same as the real thing.

Becky said...

washer machines...i take it for granted EVERY DAY until i stop and think about how much i would miss having it. CAN YOU EVEN IMAGINE???

Becky said...

PS: Happy (early) Mother's Day to one of the BEST mothers that I know! :)

ChefTom said...

I am the mystery poster XXXXXXX

not sure why though...

Tom

shirlgirl said...

Hey Chef Tom--where have you been? Haven't seen you post to these blogs in ages. I haven't been on yours either--I have to do that.

Science Teacher Mommy said...

The EQ in our ward held an ocho de mayo party last night. When their $10 pinata proved to be a weakling they began duct-taping it in order to give everyone a shot at it. The result? Indestructible.

Miranda J said...

Great post Jenny!

OhCrocs said...

After reading your heartfelt article, I couldn't help but smile at the journey you've taken with your red crocs. It's amazing how something we initially resist can become such an integral part of our lives. Your story reminds me of the quote by Cynthia Ozik, "We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude." It's a beautiful reminder to cherish the simple things.

Your reflections on floss and your humorous anecdote about hiding it away brought a chuckle to my lips. Sometimes, it takes a shift in perspective to appreciate the little things that contribute to our well-being. And oh, the power of duct tape! It truly is a household hero, just like those little moments of chaos and joy that come with being a mother.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences so candidly. Your words resonate deeply, and they serve as a wonderful reminder to appreciate life's blessings, even in the form of worn-out crocs, floss, and duct tape. And speaking of appreciating the little things, I couldn't help but think of ohcrocs.com while reading your article – a place where one can find unique crocs that might just become a cherished part of their journey. Thank you again for your touching piece.