I spent Sunday afternoon with my family romping on Rissers Beach. 
Goofing around with the football, tossing Ella (dog) a stick into the surf, and generally lazing about with kids brought me out of long fog. I realize that my focus has been narrowed for some time. Experiencing the wider world roused me from, what feels like, a long restless sleep. That’s why vacations bring about a sense of renewal I guess. Even, 3 or 4 hour super-mini-vacations that take you 15 minutes from home…into LaHave Bakery for a coffee so as to drink on the beach.
It felt right to spend the last day of summer at the oceans edge. Although some might think we live quiet and simple lives, V and I have learned that there are too many spoilers out there that rob us of quality time with the kids. We are a busy family that seems to run short of time to relax as a family. Thankfully, I’m smart enough to see it and brave enough to want to do something about it.I’m no control freak. Honestly, I am pleased that my kids are gaining some independence and that they are willing to take off on their bikes with friends for a few hours. I’m glad they have friends. And, I’m no super-parent that is constantly there for the boys at every turn as servant and playmate. Sometimes, I really dislike them and their whining about this and that. You know what it’s like if you have kids.
I just want to do a good job and most days it is real hard work. It’s painful and thankless. And, I don’t do much at all. Victoria handles 99% of everything for everyone in the house. No wonder she’s 99% burned out. It’s clear to me.
I’m half thinking of another family road trip over Christmas. Some place warm.
5 comments:
Parenting is a tough gig. It sounds like the day at the beach did you good.
That's just beautiful.
And I have no idea how parents do it most days.
Jessica does most of the work with the kids although I like to think that I help out a bit as well. No doubt that the job seems thankless and very difficult.
The time at the beach is a welcome respite. I miss summer already.
Whoa! Did you take those pictures? They are incredible!
Sometimes when you are in the daily grind, being a parent is thankless. However, it all pays off when you see the young men they become. When your kids grow up, and you actually like them, and like to hang out with them, and they with you, that becomes your thanks. Knowing you did a good job, that they are good people and best of all that they love you. It's all worth it!
And, don't get me wrong - I had those thankless days too - I'm just looking at it from the other end of the tunnel now. I have not one tiny shred of doubt that your family is going to be absolutely wonderful and your boys the kind of men I'd want my daughter to marry (if I had a daughter). I think you and Victoria are amazing parents.
What a beautiful beach!! A warm December trip would do you guys well!
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