Seize The Moment

So, right now, I'm conflicted. One thing I try really hard to do is to take advantage of any down time that I get. I don't just sit and watch TV, I usually fold laundry, clean the kitchen, or work on school work while the hubby enjoys whatever is on. On the occasion that I'm home with a sick kiddo, I try to do extra house cleaning instead of that oh, so tempting, nap. And usually, that's good. But this weekend changed that a bit. I went to a conference that tought me that I need to be more fully present for my kids. Yes, I'm usually there for them, but I tend to be preoccupied. I have forgotten how to be still. To just sit, and enjoy whatever moment I'm in. I have come to feel like I HAVE to always be busy. I think I have made myself ADD.
So, I'm not sure where I'm going with this, except this: it's about balance. If all I ever do is play with the kids, the house will be condemmed from filth, and we'll have no clean clothes, etc. But, if I spend all my time on the house, I'll be exhausted, and my kids will be out of control. So, I have to allow my house to be a little dirty, and teach my kids to be a little independent. I have to take time for my kids, myself, and the hubby and house. I think that has brought me back to the first post. Give myself a break, and set priorities. What's most important in the long run, and at the moment? For today, since I'm home with a sick kiddo who loves those annoying shows, I'll sit with him and fold laundry. But, if he needs me, I'm here. When the laundry is under control (it's never done!), I'll read a book. But, I'll put it down when the rest of the family comes home.
Balance, it's all about balance....

Priorities

To follow up with my last post about giving myself a break, I have to set priorities, remind myself of them, and honor them. Right now, I have 4 kids at home, and a wonderful husband. I am also a department chair at work, and lead three departments at church. I also think my house should be clean, my children perfect, and everything in order all of the time. WRONG! It won't happen that way. I must decide what's most important. No one else will make that decision for me, except that they will insist that they should always be #1. WRONG AGAIN! So, I have my priorities. To borrow from the Marine Corps: God, Family, Country. In my case, "Country" is everything else, behind God and my family. Many books and blogs have already been written about priorities, so I won't repeat them here. I just remember, set priorities, and live with them. Say "no" to everything that conflicts, and give myself a break about it. When you come for a visit, my house will not be spotless, in fact there are spots in my carpet and dishes in the sink. Too bad. There will be time for that later. Right now, my kids need me.