You might notice that in my weekend recap I did not mention much about my Mother’s Day. Well, there was not much to mention. In fact, it was just another standard day. I woke up around 6:30 because both the kiddos woke up. Then, Peter & I got everyone ready and out the door for church.

I taught Sunday school. I went to service…well, sort of. I had to head out halfway during because Braedon refused to calm down. After church, a friend & I stopped off at Subway to grab a quick lunch before going to volunteer for a couple of hours at a Day Center that hosts families in transition. We played with some of the children, allowing the mothers to hopefully get some down time for themselves.

I came home to an empty house since Peter went to visit his mom while I was volunteering. I ended up doing dishes and some cleaning to kill some time. Did I mention that I had not received a single “Happy Mother’s Day” wish yet from Peter (from himself or via little M)? You can imagine that by this point I felt slightly resentful.

I then got even more emotional and eventually angry with myself over that feeling. I ended up feeling ridiculous because I know my family loves me and appreciates me very much. I felt guilty hoping for some sort of special recognition because I know my husband gives of himself so much so often. I feel very blessed to have him by my side. He is amazing! I questioned why I was so upset and it troubled me that I couldn’t seem to shake that disappointment.

Finally, I decided that it was okay to feel that way. Sure, “Mother’s Day” may be what some call a commercial holiday. But it matters to me. I give so much of myself as a mother and the thought of a “special day” to receive recognition for those efforts means something to me. It’s understandable I felt upset. And I should own those feelings.

It is okay to have a bit of expectation and anticipation for something.

It is okay to want a kudos, token of gratitude, or notable gesture – be it in the form of a bought gift or a homemade card.

It is okay to hurt if those hopes doesn’t come to reality.

It is okay to feel angry over certain things, even if they seem silly to others.

Peter and I have already talked all this out. I don’t write about this to put him down or get all “woe is me”. I do know my blessings. I can’t complain. I just wanted to share that sometimes we may face emotions that we don’t quite understand or aren’t sure we can justify. I want to say it is alright to feel them. Do not feel embarrassed for what affects you.

If something bothers you, share it. Express it. Find a way to resolve it. Do NOT hold onto it because you fear its not a worthy emotion. Holding onto such emotions does nothing. You are allowed to feel what you feel. After all, opening yourself to encountering those hurts, angers, and disappointments is what allows you to move on.

Do you tend to hold in emotions or do you “wear your heart on your sleeve”?

Hello, friends! Didn’t expect to hear from me again so soon, huh? Well – today is a two post kind of day. Sometimes its easier and quicker to put things into two posts. Plus, I have a lot to talk about this week for some reason. Two giveaways. Body After Baby progress update. Life in general.

This morning I awoke in a funk. I had that emotionally, mentally, and physically drained thing going on. I did not want to kick off my week in that mood, so I tried to change it around with a trip to the gym. I did my typical Monday morning routine and staked out a spot to run through a quick weights circuit a few times.

Today’s circuit had my heart pumping quite quickly. Gotta love when that happens!

I really pushed myself with this circuit. It’s tough going through those moves back to back with NO stopping. I also accomplished a new record for push-ups. I did the first two sets ALL on my toes and just the last 5 on my knees in the last set. Push-ups always kill me, so it felt great  to see improvement there. Maybe one day I will get back to doing push-ups with weight added to my back. Awesomeness.

After my weights, I strapped on my spinning shoes for my favorite way to cross train.

And I have to say – if you spin regularly…buy some basic spinning shoes. They really do make a world of difference! Love mine!

Once the 50 minute class was over, I left the gym feeling a bit better, but still not quite my normal, chipper self. I ended up going through the day pretty despondently. I was just going through the motions of playing with the kids, handling everyday duties, and prepping for final exam crunch time with the girl I tutor. I hate that because I really do try to appreciate every moment God offers me in this life.

By the end of the day I felt better because I kept working to shift my focus. I can’t stay in a sour mood for too long. It helps to recognize the many blessings that surround me. I mean think about the troubles that those in Tuscaloosa have faced recently! When Callie asked me to share about a Blogger Baby Shower to help send aid to families with young children in need, I knew I had to get in on the action.

All you have to do to participate is visit the baby registry set-up through Amazon by clicking HERE. Purchase something off the registry, which includes items in a variety of price ranges so anyone can help. Your purchase will automatically ship to a church in Tuscaloosa that will help get these items to those who need them most. As an added bonus – all who contribute will automatically be entered to win a $50 HomeGoods gift certificate from The Inspired Housewife.

Please take a moment to stop and consider helping. Don’t just go through the motions of life, expecting someone else to step up to the plate to help those in need. Let’s all do something about it!

• What is a fitness gear item you think really makes a difference?