Life in the Mother Hood: Weaving Sunshine

Krakow, Poland 2008

It was supposed to be perfect, but it rained.

It took months of groundwork, weeks of planning, and extra days of traveling to get to Krakow, the ancient capital of Poland. We were excited to see the largest medieval square in Europe, "alive with history, pigeons, and people."

Rynek Square, 2008

But from our well-chosen hotel room, famed for it's ideal view of the market, we looked out on huddled umbrellas and slick, wet cobblestones. Colorful awnings, outdoor cafes and flower stands were tucked under dripping eaves, and the horse-drawn carriages we expected were nowhere to be seen.

Towels not included, Krakow 2008

Instead, guys in plastic encased golf carts were giving tours around the city. Our guide spoke very little English, and it was his first day on the job. Unfamiliar with the route, he dodged buses and trucks in rush-hour traffic, while we wiped mist off the fogged "windows" and dried our mud-splashed legs.

Often the dream is better than the reality. Luckily the memory is better than the reality, too. Although the sightseeing in Poland was dreary, the experience was dazzling, and now the rain adds to the ambiance of our story.

On my travels through the Mother 'hood I had similar episodes: the Christmas Eve everyone threw up all night, Disneyland when everyone got the measles, that Thanksgiving the boys swung on the room divider and landed on mom's dining room table—I could go on for hours. Anticipation and preparation aren't guarantees when children are involved; tantrums and tears can dampen every parade. I've had to learn to deal. A blessing of motherhood is realizing that purpose trumps circumstance.

I now apply this truth to any situation. When I decide what I want to have happen (strengthen relationships, have fun, learn something, relax, accomplish a task, etc.) and make plans to achieve that goal, I know a storm won't make any difference. This insight is as valuable as any umbrella.

Sunny Polish Countryside, 2008

"Weave, weave, weave me the sunshine, out of the falling rain . . . "

(Christie won the Kid Giveaway hands down.
Read her story here to laugh, cry and see why.)