proverbs 31: who is this woman?

I never really paid much attention to Proverbs 31 until I became a mother.  I didn't bother actually reading the passage because I already had my mind made up about who this woman was.  I envisioned her to be a woman with an old dress and apron on.  She was always sweeping the floor and serving everyone around her, and did nothing for herself.  Maybe that is why I never read the passage.  Like I could ever be that woman!  Hah.  Sorry, but I like to shop, get my hair done, and go out with my girlfriends every once in a while, and the Proverbs 31 woman was probably way to selfless to ever do any of those things.  These were my honest thoughts.

One day, I asked my sister what all of the fuss was about the Proverbs 31 woman.  I told her I could never be her.  It would never work.   Therefore, I decided that I would never meet up to the biblical example of what a wife/mother should be like.  She read the message version to me on the phone to help me see a more realistic picture of Proverbs 31.  (Here is the NIV version too.  It's always helpful to read bible passages in more than one version.)

The thing that stood out most to me about this woman was that she added value to her home.  She was a muli-tasker, organized, hard working, confident, positive, careful with her words, savvy, did her own thing too-but seemed to always make sure the family was taken care of first...Bottom line--She added value to her home.  This woman actually sounded pretty stylish and she even had her own little side biz that added value to her family!  This woman was not stuck inside her house all day mopping floors.  She was dynamic and interesting.  

I have been learning that the details of what a mother/wife looks like is different for everyone.  I put the kibosh on trying on everyone else's role.  I am making it my own now.  I am being observant.  Taking note of the little things that I admire about the women around me.  I am getting back into the word, and dwelling on that first before other people's opinions/advice that I value.  I am working on my heart so I can add value to my family in whatever capacity it may be.

I am accepting my limitations.  I want to be so many things, but my sinful nature gets in the way, and it's so discouraging.  I am sinful, and so is everyone around me.  We all need a Savior.  The only way I can be the woman I long to be is by relying on God's grace and strength.  My child will need to see that.  She doesn't need to see a perfect mom.  She needs to see an example of grace and love.

What stands out to you in Proverbs 31?  Please share!

**I am no bible scholar.  I just simply wanted to share some things that I am learning.  I certainly do not have it all figured out.  Please consider this in your comments!  Thank you :)