Slowing down is so rewarding. I don't mean sleeping in and vegging out rewarding. Most of the time when that happens, I actually feel worthless and obviously, that's not rewarding.
I went on a field trip today- Went to a river with a bunch of 4th graders. If you haven't done field trips- you should. Ride on a yellow limousine; a gentle reminder you are much larger than you used to be. Standing up in those seats is so awkward.
But back to the field trip.
Have you seen your pride and joy learn with their peers?
Have you watched a friend tell your baby a story?
Have you watched your child present information to their peers?
Have you helped your kid's classmates, and tried to understand their world?
Have you enjoyed a PB&J outside with a bunch of 4th graders?
Have you seen the unsuspected genius 4th grader excel?
Have you looked at birds through binoculars as minutes ticked away?
Have you listened to the excitement of your child's peers as they discover the world around them?
I did yesterday- and it reminded me that this world is amazing. Life is more simple than we make it some times. I never miss a game or practice. Have tried to escape work for field trips before, and am not a "drop and go" parent. I don't miss many experiences with my children. But when you go into an activity with a mind set to just drink it all in- Magic happens.
When we slow down and take a mental breath- we can appreciate life for all it's meant to be. Conversations that we were meant to have can happen.
Bus conversations - with a 10 year-old that acts like a 15 year-old most of the time.
"Mommy, where are we going? How long will it take?"
"Just up the highway a bit. It won't take long."
"Mommy, are you staying with my group all day?"
"That's what I am here for. To explore and learn with you."
"I love you Mommy. Thank you for coming today."
(heart melts - right here)
Or this one
"Mommy, I think my group's presentation was the best one."
"You did a very good job. I'm proud of you."
"Did you know that about pine cones Mama?"
"I actually didn't know there was so much food inside of them."
"So I actually taught you something?"
"You teach me something everyday sweet peet."
(see simple)
"Mommy, I'm cold and tired."
"Your coat's right here, snuggle up. Or do you want to put your coat on and go talk to Maddie?"
"No, I wanna snuggle you. I liked today Mom. It was fun. Can we bring Daddy here?"
"Why don't we go explore another part of the river with Daddy. You can teach him all that we learned today."
(This is where my ten year old fell asleep on my lap- on the yellow limousine.)
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