Turn off the computer and turn to your kid

Don't mean to sound preachy. But really, what a gift we have when we are parents. It's not something I realize every waking day. Believe me, there are some days that I truly need to be separated by many miles from my kids so that I can be sane. More recently, I've started to really search for what this great big motherhood thing means to me. And to me, it really is a gift. To enjoy my children and all the things great and small that they are capable of. It's a rare opportunity for me as an adult to bask in a slower, yet hectic, pace of life. One that is filled with homework, nap times, diapers, cuddles, lots of hugs and kisses. Yes, there's temper tantrums, scattered toys--everyday, wild hair--both mine and theirs. Yes, sometimes I do long to look put together and chic. Yes, sometimes I do wonder were that great looking twenty something went and how fast I've turned into the "mam" who's in her mid to late thirties. No longer do I get to bask in being young and careless, my routine dictated only by myself and my needs and desires. I have bigger, but simpler things to do. I wonder how working moms do this--or single moms. Do they get to enjoy their little ones in the same ways? I hope that they do get those rare moments of talking with their children late into the night or reading them a book and tucking them in for the night. I hope they don't rush those hugs and kisses as they have to get themselves ready for work. I also realize that I can't say I'll enjoy my kids later. This is it. Some people say they get to enjoy their grandkids. I really believe that the grandparent grandchild relationship is very different. Sure, it's nice to not have to be the disciplinarian as a grandparent. But I know that I will not have the energy as a grandparent that I do now with my own children. And even more importantly, I don't want to give up those precious moments with my children. So my goal for May, in the midst of so many things happening around our family, is to slow down and enjoy my children and the life I have with my husband. And a little thank you to my kids, for yet again, making me realize all the treasures that life has to offer.