You must do the thing you think you cannot do. Eleanor Roosevelt

Challenge Update (Saturday and Sunday): The weekend was somewhat reversed from the norm for us. Saturday is usually a busy, fun day. I often go to the shop with Joe and work in the back where the kids have space to play. The shop closes early and then we run errands together or go do something fun or come home and tackle projects.

This Saturday I stayed home; the plumber was coming (again) to finish up some work on our bathroom project. (May the Lord preserve you from remodeling projects forevermore, amen.) I was just getting started on laundry (after two days with clogged drains and hence, no laundry) when he showed up, so I got one load washed before he turned the water off. Well. I don't really like doing laundry anyway. Clean clothes are over-rated. I took a nap instead.

I have discovered the secret for napping with small children. For the last few months, since our second was born, I have tried to nap when they are both asleep. Inevitable, as soon as I am verrrrry sleepy, warm, cozy, drifting, one of them wakes up. Cries. Loudly. Doesn't. Stop. Crying. Until. I. Get. Up.

Saturday I found out what works: Don't plan on taking a nap. That was my whole mistake! Saturday I had gotten them both in bed; all was quiet. I thought of five different things I could work on. Then I thought, I'm a little tired. I'll just lay down on the couch for a couple of minutes, then I'll see what I should tackle. An hour later (a whole hour, I tell you!) I woke up. Somehow, the "Mommy-is-taking-a-nap-so-all-children-must-wake-up" vibes had not escaped into the air. I was under the napping radar. I slipped by with a delicious rest.

So, mommies, take advantage of this miracle. But don't let the secret slip out to the wrong people, or we could ruin it all.

Better Life Tip: Take a nap.