As a type-A oldest child, I STRUGGLE so much in this area. It may seem strange to some, but it takes actual discipline and self-sacrifice on my part to set plans aside and just play. Thirteen years as a parent are slowly changing me, though : )
I wonder if you remember the book “Let’s make a Memory?“ I used that book a lot to come up with so many of the simple free games and creative fun that you guys had as children. It was written by Shirley Dobson and Gloria Gaither.They were featured on the radio program Focus on the Family and Gloria Gaither told this story.
She was doing the dishes and running the household and quite frazzled when her young son came in and said something along the lines of “Mom, come on! You’ve got to see this!! Come on out Mom! Come on out!!“ Gloria said, “Honey I’m doing the dishes. I’ve got to get this done.” And he, crestfallen started walking away and said, “OK, but you’re gonna miss it.“
She was curious and compelled and went with him outside and watched a flock of geese flying over in a beautiful sunset. She was quite moved. She said to her son, “Thank you. I almost missed it.” That’s what motivated her and Shirley Dobson to write the book to help us notice, create and capture those moments, which are far more valuable, and far more memorable than how clean the kitchen counter is.
Obviously I still remember the story that I probably heard 40 years ago or so. It does take discipline to stop being so disciplined. I couldn’t be more proud of you. Life is meant to be enjoyed.
By the way, the whole time I’ve been typing this out, I’ve been watching a beautiful eagle on the tree at my eye level outside of my studio. I watched a couple scalloping boats go by earlier. There’s just so much beauty to rejoice in!
I am with you, Emma! So much easier for me to manage than mother. Tea time has really helped me to slow and connect one on one when it would be easier to "accomplish" something strictly material.
Love it! Encouraged my soul.
Lovely reminder of what matters!
Breaking up (routines) is very hard to do and can be surprisingly refreshing. Thanks for taking time to remind us.
Thanks, Mom!
As a type-A oldest child, I STRUGGLE so much in this area. It may seem strange to some, but it takes actual discipline and self-sacrifice on my part to set plans aside and just play. Thirteen years as a parent are slowly changing me, though : )
I wonder if you remember the book “Let’s make a Memory?“ I used that book a lot to come up with so many of the simple free games and creative fun that you guys had as children. It was written by Shirley Dobson and Gloria Gaither.They were featured on the radio program Focus on the Family and Gloria Gaither told this story.
She was doing the dishes and running the household and quite frazzled when her young son came in and said something along the lines of “Mom, come on! You’ve got to see this!! Come on out Mom! Come on out!!“ Gloria said, “Honey I’m doing the dishes. I’ve got to get this done.” And he, crestfallen started walking away and said, “OK, but you’re gonna miss it.“
She was curious and compelled and went with him outside and watched a flock of geese flying over in a beautiful sunset. She was quite moved. She said to her son, “Thank you. I almost missed it.” That’s what motivated her and Shirley Dobson to write the book to help us notice, create and capture those moments, which are far more valuable, and far more memorable than how clean the kitchen counter is.
Obviously I still remember the story that I probably heard 40 years ago or so. It does take discipline to stop being so disciplined. I couldn’t be more proud of you. Life is meant to be enjoyed.
By the way, the whole time I’ve been typing this out, I’ve been watching a beautiful eagle on the tree at my eye level outside of my studio. I watched a couple scalloping boats go by earlier. There’s just so much beauty to rejoice in!
I am with you, Emma! So much easier for me to manage than mother. Tea time has really helped me to slow and connect one on one when it would be easier to "accomplish" something strictly material.