Being in the Moment vs. Getting Things Done

After 3 weeks off, I have decided that being in the moment is a skill that needs to be practiced.  When working, there were rare times where I actually had the opportunity to be in the moment with Michael and the kids.  On the weekends, it was the never ending rush of activities, parties, cleaning the house and running errands that did not happen during the week.  On the weekday evenings, it was dinner time, cleaning up the kitchen, homework, baths and bedtime. Then pure exhaustion or TV watching.  RUSH, RUSH, RUSH.

Now with the opportunity to slow down, I still find it a challenge to be in the moment. My brain is wired for to-do lists, accomplishments and deadlines.  So I feel more comfortable getting things done that actually being in the moment.  I have to stop myself and say it is OK to not get things done. 

Then there is the guilt I feel for not getting more done around the house in the last 3 weeks.  Why is my house not immaculate and my life in total order?  Well, lets just blame it on the caffeine withdrawal from quitting diet coke (down to 2 a week vs. 2 a day).

THERE ARE THOSE SPECIAL TIMES THAT DO SHINE THROUGH:  laying down with Rebecca when she is trying to go to sleep.  Seeing her little face next to mine and as she looks in my eyes and tells me she loves me, pats my back and gives me a kiss.  Putting her hair in poneytails for school and discussing what color bow she wants to wear.  Listening to her giggle during her bubble bath with not a care in the world. I want to FREEZE these moments forever.

The same with sitting with Daniel in my lap while he plays on the iPad and asks me if the man in the movie is disappointed and if the women has happy tears (if you know Daniel this is incredible).  I love just riding around in the car with him and having conversations about everything under the sun like Taylor Swift, forgiving friends, blue jays, numbers on inspection stickers, etc.  We had a grand time going to the planetarium for the first time at the Air and Space Museum - so love my time with him.  And how special is it that he told Pastor Stephen that he saw a shooting star right after the children's lesson on stars in the sky.

Michael and I even had a lovely Valentine's dinner that I COOKED (a miracle for sure) as well as a night out at Goodstone Inn for Valentine's Day.  But more importantly I still must force myself to spend the little moments with Michael.  Snuggling on the coach or in the AM before the kids get up.  Really listening to his stories and sharing interesting facts - just taking the time for conversation is a muscle that must be flexed.

So I have no idea how much time I will be off, but I am trying to build up my skills for being in the moment and sharing the laughter :)