Never get too old, or take yourself too serious, to go boogie boarding!
I don’t mean the actual boogie boarding I just mean the activity or fun that your children are participating in. One of my daughters was playing a little kids version of roller hockey, and I can tell you I’m not going to get my 6’3 inch body over concrete with some five inch skates, but I will play. I’m not very good about playing and I have to remind myself all the time to let the punch list rest and seize the moment. My husband Laird is a great reminder to rolling up your sleeves (or in his case taking off your shirt) and diving in.
We live near water so the ocean and rivers are our playground, but if yours is a park, lake, rink, court, or mountain just get out there. Ha, the great thing about playing in the cold is you have some clothes on.
As parents we are already no fun and full of rules so why not try and balance that out now and again? For that matter go to an arcade and throw in some quarters with your kid for thirty minutes. Not only is it good for them, but it’s great for you, and it allows your children to see you in a different light. Let’s not forget the living example idea either. We are teaching them more through what we do vs. what we say.
Talking about balance is one thing, but striving to at least dabble in all areas is another.
When I go to the beach with my girls I’m mostly hanging around or swimming, and all it takes is a few minutes catching waves with them for me to have accomplished being a good Mom. Believe me they remember when we get silly with them every now and again.
I don’t have any answers, and I worry all the time if Laird and I are doing right by our girls. However, I never question my decision to play or have fun with my kids. That may be one of the only no brainers in the book; somewhere in the manual near giving them lots of love.
Best, Gabby