"Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." Abraham Lincoln
I came across this quote the other day, and I really like it. I think it really hits home for me right now, as I struggle with being mindful about each day and taking time to enjoy every bit of it.
The minutiae of everyday living becomes all consuming, and sometimes I miss seeing the big picture. I feel like right now I'm constantly making lists of things I need to "get done", getting bogged down with "what I haven't done" instead of focusing on all of the great things around me. I have to remind myself that as we grow older, we will look back and remember the times we spent with family and friends....not whether or not the toilet or shower stall was cleaned twice that week.
I have a wonderful husband who is not only my best friend, but also a partner in raising our son and keeping our household. I am so lucky to have him in my life, and I don't take the time to be thankful for that as much as I should. I have a happy healthy son who loves to play and learn and give big hugs (and sloppy kisses)! I really need to remind myself to cherish every minute of his childhood since it goes by so quickly (the last 17 months are proof of that!).
I'm beginning to realize that I've been going through somewhat of a "grieving" period lately. It sounds silly to say (especially when surrounded by so much joy), but I'm finding that lately I really miss my "old" life. I had a really long talk with my husband explaining these things, and he seems to understand, but not feel exactly the same. I think that he is just more easy going, and adjusted to parenthood much easier than I did. I said that I really missed the long walks we would take on weekends, the wine tastings, the awesome dinners...the pure spontaneity of the weekend. I know that these things will return in time, but they will be different. Our family dynamic has changed and will never be the way it was. I have got to come to terms with this, and learn to look back fondly and move on. I have to remember to be happy with what I have and to constantly work at making it better.
Yes, President Lincoln. You are right. I have made up my mind to be happy, and dammit, I'm going to do JUST that!
Thanks for the reminder.
