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| [sweater, denim jeans, kicks: GAP Kids; shirt: H&M] |
He looks over at me and asks, "Mommy, can you help me with this puzzle?"
"No, my love," I respond. "You can do that puzzle all by yourself."
He can. And I know this because he's a rockstar when it comes to putting puzzles together. He doesn't need my help. He just wants my help. (I'm too engrossed in my work and too focused on finishing it up to realize this at the time. I don't "get it.")
He completes the puzzle all by himself and smiles. He's happy.
"Wow, Aiden! You did an awesome job," I say.
"Yeah. I'm the king of puzzles, you know that? Because I'm good at puzzles."
He's right. He is good at puzzles. A little arrogant, but good nonetheless.
Aiden then comes over to the couch. "Would you like to play superheroes with me?"
"I can't right now, but as soon as I'm finished, I'll play with you."
"Hmm... what are you doing?," he asks.
"Work," I respond.
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| [54-piece floor puzzle done! All by his lonesome.] |
"...Could you just work at work and not at home?"
Okay. So now I get it.
He isn't trying to be sassy or a know-it-all. In fact, he asks the question in the most innocent way. But it still throws me off guard because I've gotten so used to working hard all day long. It's normal for me. And there's nothing wrong with that. In fact, I think it's perfectly okay to hustle; it's okay to be diligent; it's great to have a good work ethic and grit and perseverance and all those awesome characteristics that'll help you climb the career ladder.
Bottom line: I'm a believer in good 'ol hard work.
But being productive is way more important to me than being busy. (Less busy, more productive this year. That's the goal, remember?) Now I'm going to strive to get more things done at work (or when Aiden goes to bed) so that I can own my time at home better.
That way, I can enjoy distraction-free time with Aiden. Because that's also very important.
I'm so thankful to him for giving me this little reminder...
That's a great reminder. Sometimes I find myself keeping busy during the day with chores or errands. I should be trying to carve out more time for my daughter. I can always get things done later...
ReplyDeleteYes! Perfect reminder.. sometimes it is uber important to just be PRESENT in our children's lives. Not just there, but actually present.
ReplyDeleteSmart little guy! I get a very similar reminder from my boy sometimes.
ReplyDeleteOh, I can totally relate to that scenario. My DD says, "Stop working mommy, no you don't have to work." Boy, do I feel guilty. Do I get this work done or not? So I take a break or set a limit like okay I'm going to work for 10 more minutes and then make myself get off an play with her!
ReplyDeleteThat's awesome. He is so smart and seems like such a loving son! IDK why it brought a tear to my eye lmao I'm such a sap.
ReplyDeleteMy son is the same way. And I have moments when I slip up, but I have to remember that he's only going to be this age for so long. Have to soak up every moment!
ReplyDeleteYes, I have had that question asked of me. Why are you still working? Why can't you just rest on the couch and watch a movie. It's hard, but honestly, kids will grow up super fast and will care less if you are with them when they are 13 - we have to cherish every moment!
ReplyDeleteThat's great. Even though Liam is not as verbal at 3, he still throws me hints every once in a while that I'm not focusing on the center of the world...him lol :)
ReplyDeleteSometimes our kids teach us the greatest lessons if we are willing to listen. Clearly you are. Lol, I see lot of fun super hero games in your future. And Aiden will love it!
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