Playing again

This weekend is Conference. It’s been one of my favorites. 

A little nugget of wisdom offered stung a little.  When my litter of kids were all young, trips to the park never lacked.

Bike rides through town and story time at the library were part of routine.  My life was their life.  I loved to be outside so outside was our playground.

Catching fireflies, watering the garden and bubble baths were the best way to end a day.  

I loved that season of life!

Quickly that time passed and soon we were running around town in the car to various events.  As my kids became more self reliant I, myself, began to discover my own talents and hobbies.

As they out grew the playground apparently I did too

One by one they became school age and  my litter diminished. Soon it was just me and the youngest duck.  He happily followed me around and enjoyed the one on one. 

Today I have a 3 year old at home who follows me with a bounce in her step.  She loves playing with the older kids and gets very excited when they return from school.  My time at home now does not resemble anything to what it was before.  Instead I am cleaning or working on my passions.

Last November during a visit in Utah we drove pass a fast food restaurant with an inside play place.  

“Mom!”  She yelled from the backseat with delight.

“Inside Playground?!!?”

We didn’t see places like this back home so her observation was full of wonder also.

It was then I realized the youngest Hobi didn’t get enough “play time” out side.  I’ve never taken her to play groups like I hosted a billion times before.  I don’t pack a lunch for a nature walk with her either.  My child is a hermit, because of ME.

Now Spring is here and we are excited about being outside.  Bikes are tuned up, and basketballs are bouncing on the court.  Announcing a visit to the playground hasn’t even crossed my mind.  Instead Abi chases the older kids on their bikes like a puppy dog.  She hops around the basketball court escaping many bongs to the head.

Last week my heart stung as I passed a playground for the billionth time and she happily announced “Playground!!” Like she always does.  It’s not a whine, it’s pure delight that she has spotted a playground. (the same one every time we leave the house.)

I felt very strongly that I need to slow down and make room for her.

With this tugging at my heart, a speaker in Conference spoke of this very thing.  Turn off distractions and be there for your children.

I love being a mom.  I love little children.  I outgrew the playground prematurely.  

It’s time to stop and smell the flowers again.