In the midst of our moving preparations, crazy busy times at work, and our chaotic life in general, I have found myself looking forward to what the next day will bring--anticipating the hours of quiet as our children are sleeping, anticipating the journey. Well, my friends, God has a way of working me. One of my friends' husband died suddenly at the age of 34. Seemly healthy one day, the discovery of cancer throughout his body the next, incoherent for 3 weeks until his passing. I didn't know him personally, but from what I have heard, he was an amazing father, husband and Senior Master Sargeant. I actually had the priveledge of teaching one of his daughters and I can honestly say she is just what I hope for my daughters to become--happy, full of life, energetic, smart, intelligent, adorable, and confident. Just like that, it was all washed away. I will be 34 next month. What a wake up call! That being said, I have been reflecting a whole lot these past couple of weeks. I have a good life. No, I have a great life. A fantastic life. I know that. However, just like everyone else, well most people, I get caught up in life. In the chaos. In the way things are supposed to be, rather than just "be---ing." I hurry our children, I raise my voice, I lack patience. I get wrapped up in tomorrow instead of savoring each second of today. I am making a conscious effort to savor. Living in the NOW. I am going on a week of practicing calm. I haven't raised my voice. I offer more choices. I am making more of an effort to talk and to explain. I am also making more of an effort to walk away. Progress. Our house is quieter, perhaps a bit messier, more relaxed and life is more enjoyable. Small steps, continued effort to make life better. I often reflect on a saying I heard from Dr. Phil some time ago. He said something to the effect "Children are a blank slate and we, as parents, are the ones who write or etch on that slate." I want my children to enjoy the now. I want them to take time to savor the wonderful experiences they encounter, take advantage of opportunities, appreciate the people in their lives, and live life to the fullest. God forbid something happen to me, I hope they remember my efforts to enjoy them. Make time for them. Play with them. Laugh with them, Love them and Hear them. My family is everything and with that I must make every effort to be PRESENT and live in the NOW.
Claire is nine months old. She is such an active kid, always on the go. She no longer lays nicely when we change her diaper. It is quite the challenge. She is getting rather quick at crawling, so we have to move just as quickly to keep her out of where she doesn't belong--the fridge, cupboards, etc. Developmentally, she is right on track or maybe a bit advanced in our biased eyes. She crawls, pulls herself up, is beginning to move from one piece of furniture to another, mostly eats table food, and imitates us (both in the noises we make or actions--knocking on a door). When we hold her hands, she is beginning to take steps without much guidance. On Saturday, she made her first attempt to climb a step. Sadly, it ended with her sliding down. She has three teeth--two on the bottom, one on top with another coming in on top. Ten things we love about her: 1. her smile 2. her curiosity 3. the way she holds our hands or her own hands when she sleeps 4. her easy-goingness 5....
Comments
I am definitely guilty at looking and planning for the future and rushing through today. These are the days you never get back...my children will never be this age again, best to spend as much time enjoying every stage, every age! Best of wishes in your search for inner calm :)
Love ya,
J