Taking the Long View

As I reflect on events of the day, I am a little depressed by what did not get done.  Usually on Wednesdays I do a load of laundry and clean the bathroom, but the clothes are still sitting in the dryer and the toilet still needs scrubbing.  The long list of items on my to-do list remain unchecked.  What have I accomplished?

Before the girls woke up, I did my daily Bible study and prayed.  Then, after breakfast, we went for a walk at the park, but Daddy called and we met up with him at Panera for a second breakfast.  (You can't pass up on extra "Daddy time.")  Then, back at the house, while Cora, the youngest, napped, Kate, the oldest, and I went outside to play Hide & Seek, sweep the porch and sidewalk (she helped with her kiddie broom), and bounce the ball.  I made a pot of chili for supper and suggested having a picnic under the trees despite mosquitoes feasting on our flesh.  We also picked flowers for the house. 

Then, while Kate napped, Cora and I played outside in the rocks.  She loves putting the gravel into her bucket and then dumping it out--over and over again.  We also walked around the yard, climbed the slide, and she crawled around in the grass.   

Needless to say, I didn't get much house work done today.  But, you know, I am not too upset about it.  Yeah, I won't be voted "Housekeeper of the Year," but is that what I'm going for?  Sure I have very little visible to show for my day, but I spent time with the Lord, gave my undivided attention to each child, and prioritized people over chores. 
 
 I love Jean Fleming's A Mother's Heart: A Look at Values, Vision, and Character for the Christian Mother.  In it she says:

I must constantly remind myself that though the visible, tangible world is so insistent and clamorous in its demands, I must not let it badger me into spending my life unwisely.  The results of living by God's value system aren't immediately apparent like clean windows or a newly papered wall.  But years from now, by God's grace, my time with God and my children will produce results brighter than sparkling windows.  I must take the long view.  I must choose to do those things that will give satisfaction as I view my life as a whole, rather than measure satisfaction at the end of each day. (51) (emphasis mine)

My children will only be little for such a short time, but the house will always need cleaning.  There will always be tasks to complete, but my girls will only want to play with me for a few short years.  Take time today to spend with your children.  Be present: not just physically there, but involved and in tune with them.  Give them your undivided attention.  Read them a book.  Run outside and play.  Enjoy the short time you have with them, and thank God for the blessings of those little ones.  The dishes will still be there once they've gone to bed, and, if you're lucky--like me--maybe your husband will wash them for you!

Blessings to you!