Carpe Diem!

I don't know how to say, "Seize the Moment!" in Latin, so, "Seize the Day," will have to do. I guess that Horace meant the phrase to mean we should not think about the future, i.e. eat, drink and be merry today. 

"Gather ye rosebuds while ye may,
Old Time is still a-flying..." ( Robert Herrick)

I'm thinking more along the lines of snuggles, kisses, conversations, having happy eyes, smiles and putting my agenda on hold--even when it's, "for the benefit of others." I'm thinking about subjecting myself to being interrupted 1289 times throughout the day, by five children.

I've had mucho heartache over being, "rejected," by Reagan. And, yesterday I had an epiphany:

I've been focusing on Ray's rejection of me when I reach out. However, there are many times during the day that she seeks me out, asks to be held, and is in an obvious search for attention.

These times include but are not limited to:

• Dinner time. If I am washing dishes, sweeping, or making food--Ray is there.
• (Sorry) Bathroom time. If I even think of using the restroom--Ray is there.
• Spending time with the other kids. If I am holding somebody else--Ray is there.
• The very sacred computer time. If I am doing this--Ray is here.

You get it.  You are probably thinking, "Yeah. Duh. " It's not different from what all children do. I just forget. And, it's not always convenient. Grant followed me around every single day for almost 2 years. It's normal. I'm realizing that if I stop (STOP!) and bend down. Reach for her. Pick her up. Kiss her cheek. Perhaps make room on my lap for one more. OK, maybe the chicken will burn! Something strange happens. First of all--I get my snuggles!!! Second of all (is that how you say it? Secondly?) Ray's needs are met...and she moves on. She might be back in five minutes. But, it's not entirely consuming. Eventually dinner gets fixed.  Maybe I won't get 30 minutes of angelic, direct, eye-gazing snuggles before bed. Maybe I will. But I can certainly get 5 minutes off and on throughout the day.

Here's to a new outlook on parenting. To lessons that need to be learned over and over again. To a God that is graciously there for me when I need Him in bits and pieces throughout the day.

Sometimes you don't get quality time unless you are willing to be there for the quantity of time. It's sad but true.

I'm not the only one who's busy:

She has cupboards to stock,

 matching outfits...

  to plan,

and daddies to wrestle!

Muffin batter to test,

tea parties to attend,

tea cups to break,

and books to read.

Lego help to lend Lincoln,

bus trips to go on with Grant,

potty time,

and fits to fall asleep during.

Phone calls to make,

sisters to follow,

swings to touch the sky in,

and rays to catch.

    

 I guess instead of being a crazy, controlling, love-crazed, feelings-obsessed momma...

                                                                                                                                    

                                                  

I will give her some space. 

  And wait for dinner time~