Three Things to Make it a Great Day
I just concluded a pretty good day, especially considering my wife is out of town. I know it sounds sappy, but I do miss her when she’s gone and emotionally I can easily get a little down. Today, however, was different. Here is why.
First, I stayed moving.
I decided I needed to not sit. I had a few things on my list, but I just never let myself stop and go into contemplation mode. I realize that sometimes that is good to do, but not when it can swirl into time wasted in unfulfilling mind space. I knew today was a day to be action oriented, even if it wasn’t the highest priority. Now, as I sit here at the end of the day, I’m proud of all I accomplished.
Second, I diversified.
I started the day with a little time for myself and touching base with the kids. I went and saw my daughter run cross country on a beautiful day. When I came home, I paid bills and got caught up on household management tasks, plus sneaked in a load of laundry. Then, I made dinner for my other daughter and her friends, before they went to a school dance. I did something for myself, for the household, and for my kids. All in one day.
Finally, I asked for help.
About that dinner… typically, when I cook in the kitchen (which I love to do), I hit the point when I don’t know if things are going right and timing is critical, but I’m forgetting key steps. It can happen many times in one night and my family knows that, while I make good food, dad in the kitchen can be an unpleasant experience. (I’m working on it.) Tonight wasn’t one of those nights, though. I asked my sister-in-law to come over and help run interference with the boys and their dates (as they were cooking, too). And, I asked our house guest, Symonne, to help with pictures and serving the girls. Because all those things were covered, I could focus on preparing the meal. I was completely ahead of schedule and relaxed through almost all the meal preparation. Both my boys commented on how relaxed I was, which made me feel great!
Small things matter, even if I can’t remember them
Come Monday morning, I will probably struggle to remember what I did over the weekend. It will be hard to describe why it was a good day today. The truth is, like everything, it is just a bunch of small things all added up to culminate in a fulfilling Saturday. I may not remember the details, but I’ll remember the feeling and the satisfaction of accomplishing work and succeeding at my family relationships. Small things matter.
