I started my month long sabbatical from work this past weekend. Soon we’ll be vacationing in Costa Rica and I have a million things to do! Laundry, shopping, cleaning, organizing, packing, etc. You know how it goes.
My most anticipated part about this sabbatical is getting to spend my days with Evelyn instead of the typical daycare drop-off during the work week. Well, between all the errands and organizing for our big trip, I realized I was neglecting my yearning to just slow down and spend quality time with my daughter. I was writing my to-do list when Evie took my hand and led me to the sliding doors facing our backyard. She wanted to go play outside.
I started to think about all the things I just added to my to-do list and thought, it can wait. I quickly packed up the stroller and we headed to a nearby park. We waved to dogs and people along the way and pointed out squirrels, bunnies and flowers. As soon as we got to the park, I let her out of the stroller and we ran towards the play-set. I’m pretty sure we went down the slide at least 25 times, swung on the swing a handful of times, and chased after all the birds in sight.
I looked at her enjoying the park without a care in the world. She spread her arms out wide and tried to fly like the birds. I joined her, spreading my arms just like her and running around yelling, “tweet, tweet, tweet!” We laughed and sat on the new green grass, picking dandelions. I allowed myself to notice the trees, sprouting buds and starting to look more colorful. I was shocked that we were the only people in this huge park. And then I remembered, it’s Monday afternoon. It’s a work day. Not everyone is lucky enough to get this day off to be carefree and spend time with their kids.
I think we all need to remember that even though we have a million things to do, sometimes, it can wait. Take advantage of the moments you get to spend with your kids and make it meaningful. I am so thankful for this day and the time off I have ahead to be with my family.
What are the things on your to-do list that can wait just a little while longer?
Follow me on SnapChat –> SUGARMAPLEnotes
YES! I 100% agree with this post, sometimes it’s so hard… we get so wrapped up in our to do lists that we forget they’re only little once and for such a fleeting moment! Love this post and all of the photos! Those pink boots!
You are such a WONDERFUL mama with a BEAUTIFUL little girl! Thank you for the reminder to slow down- I am beyond anxious at 38 1/2weeks pregnant to meet this little one, but she WILL get here when she’s ready. And in the meantime, I have a happy little boy begging for my attention that I need to soak up every last minute with “just him.” …..Have a great time in Costa Rica and can’t wait to have you and Evie come over to visit and play once you are back!
Thank you so much Katie! Means a lot coming from you 🙂 When I get home, I get to meet your little girl!!! You’ve got this mama!
Love this- sometimes we’re so busy that I forget to stop and just take some time to be together and have fun.
It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day and it’s hard to keep up, but sometimes it’s nice to just enjoy life too 🙂
This is such a great post, and even better reminder. My baby just turned 6 months old and I’m realizing how important it is to slow down and enjoy all of the little things. Time goes by so fast, and it’s way too easy to miss those things if you’re not careful!
Megan
http://www.lifeonshadylane.com
I have to re-remind myself all the time!
I’ve needed to remind myself of this a lot lately. These days when they’re little are so precious. Hope you guys have a great trip!
Thanks Allie! We are on the trip and having a blast 🙂
This is a lesson I’ve learned (and continue to learn) the hard way. I work from home so I have flexible hours and get to be with my kids but sometimes it’s hard to tear myself away from work. I used to be a workaholic before kids but they’ve definitely taught me the importance in slowing down. These little kid years go by so fast!
I agree! It’s so easy to keep moving and hustling! Slowing down is good for the soul!