So many blogs that I have read recently have exhibited a quality of living that I really want to strive to emulate. A graciousness that allows them (as the mother) to make occasions special even if it isn't a traditionally "special occasion".
Like Back to School Dinner... One woman makes her children crowns and has a theme and a dinner using special dishes. Another friend of mine also does the dinner and decorations thing - just to let her kids know she loves them and wants them to have a great year in school.
Another mom I know really goes all out on St. Patrick's Day. Another, is a hostess that goes all out even just for a simple luncheon for a neighbor/friend's birthday.
Some moms throw spontaneous picnics, others take a surprise weekend vacation with the family, the list goes on and on.
I think far too often, I focus more on the energy I would have to expend for such an endeavor than I do on the memories that would be created by simple gestures of love... I do a pretty good job of TELLING my kids I love them, but I think I fall way short on the SHOWING them how much I love them - which I think (ultimately) is the more important. I don't want my kids growing up thinking "yeah, she SAID she loved me, but she never DID stuff with me..."
So - I (again) resolve to be better. To develop a habit of graciousness. To turn the small things into great memories.
Because when all is said and done, I want the people around me to know that they matter to me.
Like Back to School Dinner... One woman makes her children crowns and has a theme and a dinner using special dishes. Another friend of mine also does the dinner and decorations thing - just to let her kids know she loves them and wants them to have a great year in school.
Another mom I know really goes all out on St. Patrick's Day. Another, is a hostess that goes all out even just for a simple luncheon for a neighbor/friend's birthday.
Some moms throw spontaneous picnics, others take a surprise weekend vacation with the family, the list goes on and on.
I think far too often, I focus more on the energy I would have to expend for such an endeavor than I do on the memories that would be created by simple gestures of love... I do a pretty good job of TELLING my kids I love them, but I think I fall way short on the SHOWING them how much I love them - which I think (ultimately) is the more important. I don't want my kids growing up thinking "yeah, she SAID she loved me, but she never DID stuff with me..."
So - I (again) resolve to be better. To develop a habit of graciousness. To turn the small things into great memories.
Because when all is said and done, I want the people around me to know that they matter to me.
Comments
2nd, I totally feel the same way about the effort out weighing the small gesture. It's SO much work, but a good balance of showing and telling go along way. Plus, I think you do a good job of showing your kids in other ways than planning a special dinner or mini holiday.
You are the best mom for your kids. They know you love them.
And traditions come in all shapes and sizes. I don't necessarily think they need to be big but I'm with you on making memories with the kids instead of just "servicing" them. You are great with your kids and you inspire me to really look into my kids and know what they're all about. They are open with you and if they're not having a good time.. they'll tell you! And so far as I can tell.. they are having a good time! ;p