Autumn is here! We went from a record-high on the last day of summer to rainy and chilly temperatures by the second official day of fall. This week has been cold and rainy, too which has me all snuggly and ready for hibernation.
While I may be in a cozy mood, Elle has decided to totally switch up her nap routine this week. Some days she’s woken up super early; other days I’ve had to wake her so we can pick up Bea on time. Yesterday, she decided that napping just wasn’t for her. I know this is a typical two-year-old regression, but….
I didn’t realize how much I depended on those two hours each afternoon to be a better mom. I knew they mattered and long ago, I’ve made nap time my time. Very rarely do I do household tasks during these quiet hours. This is my time to write, to read, to send emails, to knit or do nothing at all. I use these precious moments as a time to recharge for the intense after school, before dinner hours.
I know this is atypical and that (hopefully!) we’ll be back on track today or by next week. But it has me thinking about those routines I depend on. How I take for granted moments I have each day to recharge and remember to be fully me. I suppose losing things I find routine is how I best appreciate them.
This regression also has me thinking about how to intentionally use my time. How do I set a rhythm to my days that includes quiet hours but isn’t dependent on them? How do I reframe my mindset to finding rest, even in moments that aren’t peaceful? I’m not sure I’ll ever have those answers or find that magical balance but in some ways, I’m glad for the opportunity to reflect on those moments.
Of course, I’d take a solid nap time above reflective lessons any day!
How do you set a rhythm to your day? Do you need daily stretches of quiet or are you able to find energy in activity? How do you respond when life happens and things are thrown off?
Linked with Five Minute Friday, a time to write without editing. Today’s prompt is “depend.”
Annie Rim 
Ah, the comfort of routines! I hadn’t even thought of how much I depend on them to maintain balance but it’s so true.
Sometimes I think I need them more than the girls… 😉
I love routines! I THRIVE in routines… And honestly, I am flailing miserable trying to establish one!
Haha! Flailing with you!! And sloooowly figuring it out in the process. Thanks for stopping by!
I always need some quiet time in my routine – you could say I depend on it as whether those moments to myself I am unable to give of my best to others.
It’s so true. I know I don’t give my best if I don’t have that time… Thankful it’s usually part of our day!
Fingers crossed you can routine to more “me” time soon. I relate well to your post and many blessings.
Today was back to normal – thankfully! 😉 Thanks for stopping by!
Moments of quiet are important to me as an introvert. I love being with my friends and family but there are times I need quiet to recharge. I’m over in the 8 spot this week.
I always “test” as an extrovert but am a complete mess if I don’t get quiet time daily. Maybe I’m an introspective extrovert? 😉 So important to recharge!
I find, more and more, that I need a routine to get things done. As my energy wanes, I can’t spend it in breaking new trails to accomplish old tasks.
And nap time? My service dogs need it. They are usually up all night, and collapse for a couple of hours in the ealy afternoon,so I try to keep things very quiet for them.
#1 at FMF this week.
https://blessed-are-the-pure-of-heart.blogspot.com/2017/09/your-dying-spouse-368-my-hero-hiroo-fm.html
I’d imagine that the element of surprise and unknown would just be too wearing…. Survival changes that perspective, doesn’t it?
It sure does, Annie.
I loved this! I thrive in routines too. I love stretches of quiet, but mostly have to find energy in activity! Visiting from Five Minute Friday, spot 46 this week 🙂
Yes – whatever the routine is, it’s so helpful! Life is busy with the two girls, which I love and I can so easily forget to schedule time for quiet… 😉 Thanks for stopping by!