Games People Play
In years past, while stretching out beside either of my little darlings at bedtime, we would mull over the events of the day and sometimes play a game.
I would ask:
"What was the favorite part of your day?"
The conversation that ensued not only gave us a chance to wind down for evening prayers and forehead kisses, but also provided sharp insight into what things had captured my children's hearts. More often than not, it would both surprise and warm my spirit that #1 Son's favorite moment was stopping roadside with Dad to check out a used lawn mower. #1 Daughter would revel in the impromptu "tea party" we shared on her pint-sized table in the kitchen, which consisted of broken crackers, grapes, and chocolate chips. Sometimes it was a deer or hawk we spotted, a silly joke we discovered, or a friendly visit from a neighbor. This little "game" tended to draw out an innate sense of gratitude for every-day happenings.
For the record, and to show that Moms can play games, too:
The favorite part of my day happened in the waiting room of the dentist's office. (Go figure!)
While flipping through an outdated magazine, I noticed a mentally-handicapped man, perhaps about my own age, sitting patiently for his appointment, a female companion at his side. She busied herself for a few moments with his paperwork while he greeted the staff enthusiastically.
Then, he handed her a children's book from the table there, and she began to read to him. Her voice was pleasant and lilting; his attention was rapt. Berenstain Bears is a good read anytime, as I recall. I put aside my magazine and listened along with him.
Favorite moments can happen around you; you don't have to create them yourselves. Be a sleuth for hidden blessings and you'll find them in the most unpretentious places.
You are most welcome to tell me the favorite part of your day anytime.
I would ask:
"What was the favorite part of your day?"
The conversation that ensued not only gave us a chance to wind down for evening prayers and forehead kisses, but also provided sharp insight into what things had captured my children's hearts. More often than not, it would both surprise and warm my spirit that #1 Son's favorite moment was stopping roadside with Dad to check out a used lawn mower. #1 Daughter would revel in the impromptu "tea party" we shared on her pint-sized table in the kitchen, which consisted of broken crackers, grapes, and chocolate chips. Sometimes it was a deer or hawk we spotted, a silly joke we discovered, or a friendly visit from a neighbor. This little "game" tended to draw out an innate sense of gratitude for every-day happenings.
For the record, and to show that Moms can play games, too:
The favorite part of my day happened in the waiting room of the dentist's office. (Go figure!)
While flipping through an outdated magazine, I noticed a mentally-handicapped man, perhaps about my own age, sitting patiently for his appointment, a female companion at his side. She busied herself for a few moments with his paperwork while he greeted the staff enthusiastically.
Then, he handed her a children's book from the table there, and she began to read to him. Her voice was pleasant and lilting; his attention was rapt. Berenstain Bears is a good read anytime, as I recall. I put aside my magazine and listened along with him.
Favorite moments can happen around you; you don't have to create them yourselves. Be a sleuth for hidden blessings and you'll find them in the most unpretentious places.
You are most welcome to tell me the favorite part of your day anytime.
posted by thisrequiresthought at 9:42 PM
4 Comments:
Mmm...reading your comment.
It brought a smile to my face and caused and "oooohhh" to procede from my mouth.
As for when we shall meet again...no se. Sometime in May...at which time you need to share with me your pictures and tell of your Spanish and Parisian adventures.
Ooo...I'm excited that you're excited.
The favorite part of my day was last evening when all six of us were in the family room together talking animatedly about nothing in particular. The fact that five of us were squished on the couch together, with one on the floor, made it even better. It seems a rare occasion we are all in the same room (except the dining room, eating)together these days. Homework, track, work - these are the things that take us away from one another. I cherish the every day moments of togetherness - they are getting rarer.
We play that game in our house, too, and it is almost always the favorite moment of my day.
Welcome back.
My favorite part of the day is morning. I love to hear the birds chirp when I walk to my car to begin my morning drive to work. I also love to see God's beautiful creation during my morning drives.
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