I get by with a little help from my friends...

Motherhood, while being absolutely rewarding, can be quite challenging at times. For so many years I stayed secluded and just dealt with all of the joys and frustrations on my own, figuring it was my job to do that. As I've gotten wiser (or some might say older), I have learned there is a vital component to motherhood that is not just important, but essential. It is the difference between surviving and thriving. Are you ready to hear my major discovery???Friends. Not just any friends, though......The kind of friend that will bring my family a meal when my kids are sick because she knows that even though I'm home, my attention is elsewhere as I am playing the role of nurse and I am thoroughly exhausted....The kind of friend that will be my accountability partner in my fitness journey and will gladly receive my "sweaty selfie" pictures each time I work out and then respond with support and encouragement EACH TIME....The kind of friend that I text to tell her I am losing my mind and list all the reasons why and she responds with, "I'll be there as soon as I can." When she comes, she shows up with wine and a big hug. She doesn't like to give hugs, but I love hugs and she knew that would make me feel better. I think I've turned her into a bit of a softy. ;)...The kind of friend that texts me out of the blue just because I've been on her mind and in her heart lately so she wants to know how I'm doing and if she can pray for me in any specific ways....The kind of friend who knows I don't have time to take care of myself when my kids are sick so she brings me a healthy lunch and a latte. She was also willing to hug me despite the fact that I hadn't yet showered today and have literally been snuggling with sick kids since Saturday (today is Thursday)....The kind of friend who encourages me because he knows I feel as though I have a calling I need to follow and dreams and goals to fulfill even when I can't figure out exactly what they are and how to figure it out.This list could go on and on. I am so grateful for my friends. They have truly got my back and care so deeply. They help me thrive. Life can knock you down in whatever role you may be playing, but if you have true friends - friends that are more like family - you won't stay down long. They won't let you.Friends, you help me be the best possible version of myself. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.