Probably some random thoughts here, but oh well.
We are gearing up for school to begin tomorrow for Maddie and Kate. I will be home with Izzy and heave Pieta here Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. I have really enjoyed this summer with all the girls - they have been helpful with new chores, playful with friends and neighbors, imaginative in their play, willing to try new things. Kate learned how to play tennis from her "Aunt" Jill. She really got the hang of the swing, positions, and was able to hit a lot of balls. I'm considering the Urban Tennis program for her next summer, especially since they meet right up the road at Homecroft School.
Kids in school means new routines at home. We will have to drive the girls to and from school - maybe bike it or walk a few times! I'll have to create a cleaning and laundry schedule to keep me on task and make sure it all gets done well. I function better on a schedule and like routines. I also hope to build in exercise-I think I can make it to the YMCA twice a week and maybe do something here at home the other days. I still have knee problems after I exercise. Just a slight pain, inflammation maybe. I also hope to build in time for prayer and meditations on the Gospels. I learned a great new method of focused prayer that really helps to get to know the person and humanity of Christ. Will blog more about that when I actually do it!
On a totally different note- I have been getting the paper and read a big front page article the other day about stay at home moms and the use of i-phones. While I am all for technology and its amazing uses and help for convenience and other good things, I was struck at the three large photos printed of this one mom who used her i-phone a lot. The pictures showed her on a walk with her kids checking her email; at a cafe with her three kids checking the latest headlines; and I forget the other one. The point of the article was broader than that, but I was just surprised that all the pictures and captions showed her in fact not being present to her kids, but using the device to do things that probably could have been done at a different time. I just know from experience that it is really tempting to go to the computer or cell phone to catch up, touch base, or amuse myself. But, I am often convicted of the thought, "Is this the BEST time for this?" My children still nee me to be attentive and present to them especially if we are on a walk, at the park or other outing TOGETHER. This is something I am finding may actually be a 'lost art'- being present to people. I always find more productive and efficient time to use technology in the moments when all is quiet and the kids are otherwise occupied. Just my reaction to the news! It's tough in this time to be a really good homemaker. The paper doesn't make it any easier.
2 comments:
I so agree. I see people on their cell phones in what seems to be "so,what are you doing" types of conversations. I want to tell them to hang up and pay attention to their kids! I have a policy of turning my phone off when I am with friends so I am not tempted to answer calls. I want to be present to them and not in a conversation with someone who is absent. I keep thinking, just because it rings, do you have to answer it? I think not.
Ah Lucy!! You are so spot on!! After living so far away from family in a small town, I am really appreciating the " being with others in the moment". It makes me realize we do NOT need all that " stuff"...iPhones, etc.
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