So at the beginning of the year, there was a challenge placed to pick one word we were going to live by in 2009. I know we're already finished with a month of the new year, but Ive been reflecting on what my perfect word should be. Im a little slow, but I think I finally figured it out; and the best word I can think of to describe how Im feeling is:
So the reason I pick this word might sound a little corny, but Ive been painfully aware lately of how fast time flies. My oldest child will be in the double digits this year. Another 10, and she will be an adult! Thinking about how quickly the last 10 went, and knowing full well that the next 10 will probably go even faster, Ive decided to re-examine my outlook on life. Im determined to relax about the stupid little things that dont matter, like my kids eating crackers on the couch, or playing with the horribly messy moon sand, or finger paint; or sneaking candy out of the pantry. As strange as it sounds, Im actually trying to let my house be a mess, so that I can focus more on giving my kids the opportunity to have more fun, and giving me more time to spend with them, instead of worrying about how the house looks. No, I haven't totally lost it...I do still clean. Im just trying to not be so obsessed about it.
Anyway, the point is, Ive been feeling like a horrible mom, who has been missing out on all the fun opportunities I could be having with my kids, because Im too worried about messes, or money, or what a pain it is to load them all in the car and take them somewhere. Before I know it, they will be grown. The opportunities will be missed. It will be too late to go on that vacation we have been saving our whole life for...too late for that bedtime story. The memories cannot be re-made. So I am vowing to CHERISH the moments, while I can. To make them better. To make my time worthwhile. To make my kids happier. This will be a lifetime goal, not just one ending in 2010. Thanks for the challenge. Wish me luck, and if you come to my house, and its a complete disaster...congratulate me!
4 comments:
Good word! I think that was the best thing about having a third kid for me. It made it impossible for me to keep the house perfect anymore so I decided that sometimes it is okay to just play. After all, when the kids are all grown and gone the laundry will still be there. Don't you wish it would grow up and go away and the kids would stay instead?
That's a really great word and post. I am the same way. I know I need to obsess less about the house and spend more time playing. It's hard. Good luck with everything.
What a great word. It really is amazing how fast they grow. They will remember spending time with you more than a clean house or anything else!! Love it!!!
I got this as a forward on an e-mail, thank you for the great reminder. I have 6 kids and have felt the very same way as you. I will commit myself to embrace the moments, and have a messy house because my kids are waaay more important. thank you.
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