If there were a list of my personality traits, spontaneity would never make the cut. I used to think this was a flaw, and perhaps one day I'd feel free to travel the world with nothing but a toothbrush (and my favorite lipstick). But now I'm beginning to embrace the side of me that feels happiest with daily rhythm. I've discovered that Sister Butterfly and Brother Butterfly also prefer a slow cadence to our days, and when some weeks are filled to the brim with extra playdates, appointments, and general running around - extra tears and struggles ensue. Yet some weeks have to be that way.
True, most of my days are spent washing clothes and hanging them up to dry while Sister Butterfly follows me around chatting, like a musical two foot shadow. Setting up some paint and paper and then cleaning it all up before dinner. Brother Butterfly crying while I slice some apples for a snack. Packing picnics for the park and then unpacking it all when we return home - empty containers filling the sink. Yet another diaper change. But I'm finding that making time for these unhurried, ordinary moments of life yield more moments of discovery and creativity - and even unplanned, exhilarating moments.
Sister butterfly picking up a pen and drawing her first animal - oh the look of pride on her face! Brother Butterfly rolling over on his blanket. Discovering a centipede on a slow nature walk, and numbers on the play area rug. The baby watching his sister decorating her own bagel - complete with a smiley face- and letting out a soft chuckle. Playing the same board game over and over until everyone finally understood all the rules. It's moments like these that feel like backpacking through Europe. At least for this mama.
We're still finding our summer rhythm sweet spot, but currently this is our weekly routine:
Mondays: Morning ~ free play; Afternoon ~ library
Tuesdays: Morning ~ craft; Afternoon ~ YMCA+park
Wednesdays: Morning ~ ballet+grocery shopping; Afternoon ~ swimming
Thursdays: Morning ~ playdate; Afternoon ~ read-aloud time
Fridays: Morning ~ Game day at home; Afternoon ~ Outing
I'd love to know the daily or weekly rhythms that work best for your family!
6 comments:
Awesome Jesse! Lovely captures and can't agree more to this post. Nice to see that you have made up a great routine with two kids!
We don't have much of a weekday routine as Sid spends his entire week at his preschool while Mama and Baba are excited about their work at office. Our Friday evenings are dinner outside and a movie (at home). On weekends, depends on if we find some good spots or events to explore around.
Love this! The ordinary can become extraordinary :-) love auntie Jen
Shalini- Friday night dinners outside sound so lovely, especially on your pretty patio! There are so many great spots to visit in your neck of the woods- we will have to join you one day. :)
Most definitely auntie Jen! Xo!
Bhavi..kudos..lovely activities..and growing kids..you are a great mom!
Bhavi..kudos..lovely activities..and growing kids..you are a great mom!
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