I had just walked in the door from work, barely had even set my laptop bag and purse down, much less caught my breath from rushing home or said ‘hello’ to my husband. The kids nearly tackled me for hugs and were telling me all about their day. Then came the question… “Mommy, will take us for a family bike ride?”
So many reasons to say “no” to that request. I was still in work clothes and really wanted a minute to settle into being home. It was August, so probably really hot outside, not typically a time of year for bike riding. What I explained to Ryan, though, was I had a pilates class later that evening so didn’t have time for a bike ride before dinner.
“But, Mommy, you’ll get your exercise on the bike ride!”
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How do you argue with such logic from a 4 year old? So, I agreed to a compromise – a short bike ride around the block, not our usual longer ride all over the neighborhood.
As we rode, I realized what I would have missed had I stuck to my “no”. I would have missed this precious time with my kids. This time where we’re disconnected – no phones, no TV, no computer. Just outside exercising together. Usually a chance to talk and catch up on the day as we ride together through the neighborhood.
I did, in fact, get a good exercise that afternoon as our bike ride turned into a little more than just around the block. The weather was unexpectedly pleasant for August, so it turned out to be a nice evening for bike riding.
What better way to exercise than with my kids, helping to model an active lifestyle – something I’m just now learning myself as I’m raising two very active kids.
The best time spent is that spent with those whom we love.
Later, I did go to my pilates class. Double the exercise and double the blessings to spend time with both my kids and my friends.
How are you spending your time today?
Sharing with: #TellHisStory, Thought Provoking Thursday, Friendship Friday, Essential Fridays, Coffee and Conversation, Saturday Soiree, The Weekend Brew
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Ginger Biggs Harrington says
A great reminder to think twice about those no’s. So glad you enjoyed a quick ride and a great memory. Visiting from Tell His Story.
Kathryn says
It’s hard to balance time with the kids and time to myself, especially when the split seems so unbalanced most days – but it was a great reminder that time together is always time well-spend. Thanks for stopping by!
[email protected] says
“But, Mommy, you’ll get your exercise on the bike ride!”
No wonder kids teach us so much! There’s truth sprinkled from here to there …
;-}
Kathryn Shirey says
Love how their young minds work and the gems they utter from time to time! And, he rode extra hard and made sure I did in fact get my exercise. 🙂 Love that he teaches me – and keeps me in shape!
Candy Reid says
Such truth! I struggle with answering “No” way too quickly. I guess it comes from having a plate that’s too full. But, like you, I find that when I’m more intentional with answering “Yes” the blessings are always worth it!
Thanks for sharing your article with us at Coffee and Conversation. Hope to see you again next week. 🙂
~Candy
//momsmorningcoffee.com
Kathryn says
A plate that’s too full – yes! Unfortunately that always seems to be the case, but trying to prioritize all that’s on the plate and put these little ones first (even when a little quiet time is what I really want).
betsydecruz says
Yes, Kathryn! I’ve been thinking lately of how I often view my kids and husband’s requests as “Interruptions!” Does that sound terrible, or what? But they’re not interruptions, they’re the most important people in my life. Today my husband and I took my daughter, who was struggling, out for ice cream. We had a great talk.I was so glad later that I did that.
Kathryn says
I know what you mean! I have ideas for how I want to spend my day and these requests often feel like ‘interruptions’ – but so often they’re wonderful moments together and time I get to be intentional with my kids.
Gertrude Nonterah says
I have a son who just turned one. I always have to remind myself that I have just about 17 years left with him where I can actually spend time with him and impact his life before he spreads his wings and flies away. I especially remind myself when I get worn out chasing him around the house getting him to wear his diapers.
Thanks for sharing this post at Working Christian Mommy !!
Kathryn says
This parenting thing can be SO exhausting, but we do have such a brief time with them – and even shorter that they’ll want to spend time with us. Trying to remember to take advantage of these moments while they’re little. My oldest (at 6) is already showing so much independence – wouldn’t even let me take her to school on her first day! Wanted to walk to school all on her own. 🙁
sarahgirl3 says
Aww that is sweet! Sweet that he asked, and sweet that you accepted. I know I sometimes waste moments now with my girls. They won’t always want to be with me!
Kathryn says
I know I need to take advantage of this brief time when they want to spend time with Mom – even though it can feel overwhelming in this season, I know it’s a very short season before they’ll be off on their own.
Candy Reid says
Such truth! Thanks so much for transparently sharing your heart AND for sharing this post with us at Coffee & Conversation. I hope to “see” you again on Wednesday!
Blessings,
Candy
//momsmorningcoffee.com