“Mommy, look. Mommy, look. I got dressed by myself.”
Yes, I can clearly see that.
“Mommy, look. Mommy, look. I am going to say my ABCs.
Now watch, mommy. I’m going to say my ABCs with my eyes closed.”
Ha, OK. What a very rare and exceptional talent.
“Mommy, look, Mommy, look. I went to the potty. Come see. You didn’t look. No, look Mommy.”
Yes, I see. I’m so proud.
This is any given day at my house. My kids seek constant attention and want me to watch them do absolutely everything. And when there’s something they want, they find a way get it, one way or another.
As Newton taught us, for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. My boys will do whatever it takes to get the most reaction out of me. Whether the goal is to make me laugh, melt my heart with their sweet words, or simply make me scream, they certainly have a talent for it. They like to get creative with their approach, and every day I’m up against something new.
Kids learn at an early age, the best way to get your instant attention and focus is to do something they shouldn’t.
Lately, my five-year-old has taken to hiding in odd places in the house and then jumping out and scaring me. The louder I scream, the more he laughs. Apparently my terror is his delight.
And he knows already I’m an easy target. I can’t help but scream every time. And yes, he’s getting quite good at this game. He’s even got his daddy a few times now.
But while my kids drive me crazy, demanding my attention almost every minute of every day, I’ve realized, in the grand scheme of things, they aren’t asking for much. Time is something that should be simple to give, but sometimes isn’t.
We get so wrapped up in the things that have to be done, it’s easy to neglect the things that should be done (and matter most).
I want to make an effort to unplug from my distractions, live in the present and pay attention to the details. I want to listen to my family, laugh with them and let them know they are my priority.
Everyone always says your kids are only little once.
Tread lightly, there will come a day when you are the one begging them to spend time with you.
Make time now. It’s the little moments, the inside jokes, the family stories and time spent together that will be remembered most.
These are the stories that live on.
I want my kids to know, wherever they go, whatever they do, I will always make time for them. If they need me, I will be there. They have my attention now, and always.
