An Easy Way to Acquire a Life of More Happiness

Ladies, how often have you heard this: “What do they think? I am sitting around eating bon-bons?” Yea, me too.  Where on Earth did that come from anyways? Regardless, we are busy.  Everyone is busy in their own little ways.  (Or rather, in their own ‘big’ ways). 

This is why it is so important for us to remember about the connections we need with our families.  It is important for us to realize that in the end, our closest family members, and likely a very few select friends, are who will be there to pick you up or give you that smile you so needed on that over-the-top disastrous day.  

One way for which I had been blessed as a child growing up was the dedicated time around the dinner table.  With this came a home cooked meal from my mother, the demands of no television by my father (Yes! Thank you Dad for instilling that within my core values as a parent in today’s electronic laden society!) and of course, the amazing conversations my two brothers, my parents and I would have nearly every night.  

If you are looking for a way to reconnect, a way to share your love and find solstice to a crazy day, let your family dinner table be your saving grace. This is an easy way to acquire a life of more happiness in our seemingly disconnected lifestyles.

 

 

My husband travels a lot.  My children, although they are still in grade school, seem to have a busier schedule than I do – and my schedule is stacked! Many days arise in which I just want to throw in the towel, so those are the days I dig down deep, throw on the bluetooth audio and cook my heart out.  

What I really love to do is taking extra time every so often and prepare something a bit more special, especially for hubby! What’s even more fun, is getting my kids involved.  This not only teaches them life skills but it gives me yet another opportunity to chat with them and hear about their day.  

When was the last time you had your children in the kitchen with you? I know it can seem daunting and you would much rather just get things done quickly, but one day, likely sooner than later, they will thank you for it.  Here is one way I have been thanked:

 

 

That was my daughter and something she had written to surprise me.  I found it on the fridge one afternoon, thinking, “where did that come from?” My heart just melts and it will forever have a place right there on the fridge where she left it.

My son, I just can’t keep out of the kitchen.  This little prince wants his hands in it all, even if it is as simple as bringing a bowl to other side of the countertop.  But his favorite is right there at the stove.  Teaching about the safety of hot surfaces, where handles should be pointed and sharp objects, make it a safe atmosphere.  Remember this when bringing your kids into the kitchen as well. It’s a learning environment in many ways.

 

 

My daughter, she loves the spotlight! So, I thought, well, why not make a video.  I was quite impressed by the way she spoke and conducted herself.  The only “script” she had was one of her favorite Super Healthy Kids recipes.

 

 

Ok, so on with the more intimate side of my life.  This particular evening, my husband was expected to be back home right around dinnertime.  So, I decided to get the kids fed beforehand and equip them with a movie in our bedroom.  (I am sure you moms can relate.  There is something cool about watching a movie in Mom and Dads room).  Considering I was running around making two meals, my photos are a bit on the darker side.  Or I could call it mood lighting.  (wink!)

 

 

No judging, yes, I am a wine lover and have found my own personal way fitting it into my life.  To me, there is nothing like a glass of wine, great food and amazing conversation. Being in south Florida, we are quite often blessed with amazing evenings and sitting out back with a chilled Chardonnay, chatting with my husband while the kids run around catching bugs…bliss! Sweetheart weekend is coming up in a few short days.  Even if you have the kids in tow, you can still make it special by doing something as I had.  Trust me, everyone will love you for it!