A really good start

When I resolved to be more present in the moment and make every day memorable, I expected it to be challenging.

I expected weeks and weeks of struggling. Reflecting each night on the ways I had strayed and renewing my vow each morning.

I expected to fail famously before succeeding modestly.

I did not expect M and Baby to show me how to do this one with such simple grace.

But oh did they.

In the part of our evening routine that is characterized by acceleration, they slowed down. On the way to washing hands after dinner, they paused. They created. A chalk masterpiece that took on a life of it’s own.

And instead of seeing a moment perfect for sneaking away to check email or prepare for bedtime, I saw a moment to be present.

(I’m going with present is present, behind the camera or not)

I watched. I ooed and aahed as the sun and the earth and the  moon took shape.

I eavesdropped on their plans. I marveled at how a half circle became a face, became a moon, became an elephant.

I curled up in that moment, ignoring the clock and chores and anything that wasn’t materializing on the chalkboard.

A present moment. A memorable moment. A really good start.