In life, we tend to take a lot of things for granted. We often breeze through our days thinking about the things we don’t have, instead of the things we do.
This came to my full attention on vacation when I had to share one restroom with my boys and husband. While this may not sound like a big deal, it became quite the ordeal as the week progressed. Let’s just say we had our own “bleachable” moments.
Not only did the boys make big messes with toothpaste and toilet paper, and the inability to hit the target, they also apparently have synchronized bathroom habits. It never failed when one boy (big or small) would go, the others would have to suddenly go as well. So everyone (not occupying the restroom) would jump around in the hallway waiting their turn … some did this better than others. Patience is a hard thing to learn.
I’ve always thought vacations were pretty straightforward. Yes, you get a chance to get away, turn off the rest of the world and focus on each other. You also get to eat what you want (because calories don’t count), get up when you want, and spend your time relaxing instead of checking that phone.
But it’s also a time to realize the things you take for granted. As a family, we absentmindedly count on each other for everything without really acknowledging the things we all do for each other every day. It’s easy to feel the pressure to think about what we need to do to get ahead, and forget that often what you really need in life, you already have right in front of you.
The grass may seem greener on vacation, but I also have a new appreciation for the finer things I already have in my life. Yes, I take new, pure joy in having four bathrooms (one for each family member) at home. And I vow to no longer take this luxury for granted.
As much as I love spending time with my boys, there are some things I prefer to do alone … and not have to wait in line.
I somehow don’t even mind the pounding on the other side of the door as much as I did before.
“Mommy, Mommy, where are you? Open the door. What are you doing?”
Yes, I have lot to be thankful for. While we may not have too many peaceful moments at my house, there’s never a dull moment either. I wouldn’t want it any other way.
