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Go With The Flow
Monday, April 25, 2011 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
Do you "go with the flow" or do you just "GO?"
I admit it. I'm a planner. I am a multi-tasker. I read the news on my phone as I'm walking the dogs. I know. This is NOT smart.
At any time, I can tell you when and where my next three vacations will be to, as well as the weekend plans for the next few months.
I've already looked at and started making plans A, B, and C of where the kiddo will attend school (which is a few years away).
It's a sickness really. I'm so connected to my day and my plans, I seldom stop to enjoy the quiet. This means that life for my kiddo is similiar too.
Good or bad, it's reality.
To plan or not? Nah, I'm not talking about planning for pregnancy, though that is definitely worth conversation. I'm talking about the day-to-day plans with our little ones.
Since discovery day, the kiddo has been along for the ride with my plans. First came the transition plan for childcare, and then swim lessons. Once we got those "agenda" items crossed off, I added on a few house projects. Then, came care of self (yoga and "the big race"!). The list goes on.
Today, I'm looking at all these items and the question became "WHAT IS THE RUSH?"
In our household, we're always running. We're (okay, I'M - no need to drag the hubby into this) always planning "the next adventure," the next "to-do."
The sun recently started shining in the midwest (this IS a big deal after 6 months of cold/grey days) and it made me stop and think about my developing little kiddo. What is MY agenda doing for HER developent? What is YOUR agenda doing for YOUR CHILD'S development?
What is the value of our daily activities? I've actually pondered, and answered, that question before.
But how much is enough? And how much is too much? And when and how many days should be simply UNplanned?
When's the last day you and your kiddo just "hung out?" No agenda. No worries on what to do or where to be?
I can't say it happens that often in my household. What I can say is that there IS value to it.
There is value in being with your child and watching where they take you.
The UNplanned moments may surprise you. They may lead you where you least expected to go. You may see more growth and development than you imagined.
As fun as it is to "GO," I need to "go with the flow" a little more often.
Where is your time with your little one taking you these days? Where do YOU want to go?
