The day was coming to an end, and there were still plenty of important things yet to be done: emails to send, dinner ingredients to prep, and a toy-littered house that had been neglected for way too long. And then, the minute I finally set the baby down to play on the floor so I can be productive, it happened.
My 3 year old tugged on my hand, one of her favorite books in her little outstretched arms and her face beaming with excitement.
“Mommy, can you read me a book?”
I thought about all that I had to get done and how few hours were left in the day. Then I sat down amongst the piles of toys and unfolded laundry and began to read the Hungry Caterpillar for the zillionth time. Thoughts of deadlines, time-sensitive issues, and urgent demands were pushed out of my mind so I could read a story and fully connect with my kids.
My oldest, many years ago. Love those cheeks!
Sure, there were a lot of important things that I should’ve done instead. Work assignments needed my attention. Chores had to be done in time for school and work tomorrow. But none of that matters as much as really connecting with my kids and letting them know that they are being with them is the most important thing in my life.
Baby and Mommy having a late-night chat.
We send our children subtle messages when we interact with them. When we read to them, sing to them, sit with them, play with them, what we’re ultimately saying is we just love to be with them.
Madeline (bow) and Emily exploring new toys.
When it comes to cherished moments with our kids, there should always be time for that. Moments filled with tight hugs, silly giggles, and fairytale stories. Because one day the hugs won’t come so freely, silly giggles will be a memory, and fairytales will lose their charm. When that day comes I’ll be glad I spent my evenings reading stories and dressing dollies.
All that real-life stuff still needs to get taken care of. But we can still do our best to spend our time with our kids kissing boo-boos and fixing hair bows instead of doing paperwork.
So here’s to motherhood. May we appreciate these days for the treasures that they are.
I would love to hear your thoughts on letting things go in exchange for connecting with your children.
