Task-oriented

I am task-oriented. Sometimes this is my positive character trait. I can get things done. I can usually get things done quickly. I can multi-task (well except when it comes to carrying on a conversation.) I am pretty efficient and can find the best way to get things done (or at least the best way for me.) Like I said, this can be a positive trait and an asset to those around me. My goal usually all day long is to get things done. Accomplish things. Completing a task, any task, is accomplishing things to me.

Last night I was contemplating like many other times before, how this can absolutely, positively be one of my biggest downfalls at the same time. Throughout my whole day, I incur task after task. Whether it's ironing what I will wear for the day, making dinner, or getting the girls ready for the day, everything is about getting something done. I find I have trouble relaxing and just enjoying moments without reminding myself that the current task needs to get done.

Getting the girls ready for bedtime is when I realize this the most. For me, it's all about completing the job. Making it from point A to point B by an appropriate bed time. Making it to lights out before hours have somehow flown by. When I give the girls a bath, I'm not sure if they get to have much fun because I need to get everyone washed and out of the tub to complete that task and move on to the next.

This is such a huge battle for me. I want my girls to enjoy time with me and not think I am constantly moving them along to the next task. Why can't I stop and breathe for a minute and not worry about getting them in bed so the job is complete. I want to stop thinking about the next thing that needs done as soon as I get the current thing done. (Sorry, I'm not using the best and most eloquent language, but I think you get it.)

Tonight I was reading to Charlotte and kept looking up at the clock thinking about how late it was getting. We needed to wrap this up, get to bed and check Charlotte's bedtime off the list for the evening. Then Charlotte pulled a book off the shelf that I had bought for Drea. It's called Dreams for My Daughter. I read the whole thing to her (even though she stopped paying attention to it well into the second page) and it made me think about the dreams I do have for my girls. How I want to take the time to tell them and love on them. It made me contemplate this personality trait I possess and how I can turn it off before my girls only remember me as the mom who rushed them along to the next task. I love them so much! I can't believe every day that God has given me these beautiful little people to care for and help mold. I only hope I can slow down and help point them towards their dreams and not miss the true moments.



Dreams for My Daughter
by Polly Blair

Every day you surprise me, impress and inspire me.
I loved you before I even saw your face.
I dreamed of the fun we'd have together
and of the tea parties we would host.
My daughter, while I can't be with you every step of the way,
my arms and heart are always open for you,
and I wish for you these gifts:
An ocean-wide sense of wonder
and an open heart for love.
I wish for you the joy of catching snowflakes on your tongue,
playing with best friends,
getting lost in a good book,
and time to dream.
I wish you remember to test the water first,
but know sometimes you will just need to jump in!
I wish for you the joy of giving, and forgiving, and of giving thanks.
I wish for you to know that you will find rainbows even on umbrella days.
I wish for you the gift of knowing that mistakes are part of growing
Hurts will heal, because you'll find that laughter is truly the best medicine.
I treasure every time we giggle together, cry together, and smile together.
My daughter, you are my bright star.
You sparkle and glitter and shine.
I wish for every day to be a wonderful adventure.
There is nothing you can't do.
I believe in you.