No Rest for the Camper!
By Amanda on Jan 18, 2010 in Featured
When Jeff leaves for camp or a conference and I stay home with three kids, and glad to be able to do it really. But I can’t help but feel a little jealous that he’s going to sleep through the night, not have to change a diaper, or deal with nap times, tantrums and bottles for a few days.
(Not to mention the weeks where the stomach flu has visited, or lice, or concussions, stitches, and a few hospital visits while he is gone).
When he comes home tired he has to fake it. No way do I want to welcome him home with a nap or a special rest time. “Back to the real world Buddy!”
Although I know that we all benefit when I do welcome him home to rest and relax 
. Because then, after his rest I get to rest (for a bit). Now, I realize his job isn’t the equivalent to taking a mini vacation. Trust me, I understand and have been to camp with High School students (and that’s why I don’t go anymore). It’s stressful and those crazies don’t like to fall asleep til 3am! He works hard and I work hard as well when he is away. It is a shame that there is no rest for the camper, me or him. We work hard to come home to work hard. And even the rare occasions when I say, “Take a load off, go take a 5 hour nap and be alone for awhile.” The kids seem to never let that happen! “Daddy play with me!” “Daddy watch me!” “Daddy look what I learned.” “Daddy, look what Mommy let me do, that you said no to…” Life doesn’t stop when your worn out. No rest for the camper……Oh someday. I’m looking forward to that “someday” nap.
Girl, not sleeping through the night, yet? Oh, honey, I’m sorry! I have a 7 month old and a toddler and understand, but I do get to sleep for a few hours each night. Hang in there, my dear. My hubby just returned from Bible quizzing on Friday night and then a 30 Hour Famine Sunday night and Monday. Needless to say he hadn’t slept (or eaten well) so he came home and crashed. Meanwhile, I remained the single mommy whle the daddy was passed out in the bedroom. It’s so stinkin’ hard. Know you’re not alone!
Jessica | Jan 20, 2010 | Reply
The post camp/weekend trip is always a challenge. I try to just leave the house. Idealy, I arrange for a friend to watch the kids for a few hours. My husband can rest a bit, I get some space from the demands of 4 young children, and the kidos get a few hours of a grown up who misses having little people around.
The hardest time for me was actually when I had three children under 5. My entire life was such a blur. I don’t really know how I survived that time. (ok, I know. God got me through it; you know what I mean.) It was crazy hard.
As much as you are able, shorten your to do list – - in every area of your life. Survival is not too far off from the goal. Some joy in the process would be great, but I found that joy came by letting go. Letting go of previous cleanliness standards, most outside responsibilities, and the yp’s wife pressure to look a certain way. You will regain a handle on your life. My children are now 8,7,4, and 2. My house is cleaner than it was when they were 5,3,6months, and not yet born. I was able to take on a hs girls bible study for the first time in years, and I even take a shower fairly often these days.
Press on, my friend! This blog is an amazing “extra” that you are finding time for. Thank you for blessing women around the country with your honesty and willingness to guide such real discussions.
Totally unrelated:
have you seen this?
http://www.chattingatthesky.com/2010/01/20/the-books/
Emily has left comments on here several times. Way to go Emily! Let’s cheer her on as she bravely tries to take on “one more thing”
Ann | Jan 20, 2010 | Reply
This post made me smile… my husband works in a large middle school ministry, and I know exactly what you are feeling! Although, it’s truly a toss up for me what is less stressful, staying home with my children (even on their worst days) or going on a weekend retreat with the Middle schoolers. I tell you what, even after a few hours at youth group on some nights I feel like I am dealing with my own children (who are 2 and under!)… Isn’t it funny that these stressful events and ministries are still an incredible blessing to be a part of. Just like motherhood… stressful and exhausting but a true blessing.
Thanks for posting!
Kelly | Jan 22, 2010 | Reply
i know exactly how you feel…my husband isn’t a youth “pastor” yet, but has been serving in youth ministry pretty much since we got married and whenever he goes on those camps i’m almost relieved i can’t go…at times i feel left out when he comes home with all these awesome stories of how the kids experienced God and how much fun they had, but i love my kids and wouldn’t change anything and i dont want to miss a second of their babyhood (i know that’s not a word but it should be
).
Sarah | Jan 28, 2010 | Reply