Hot Tub Time Machine

The sprouts just went back to school today after a little President’s Day/Mid-Winter Break. Although we didn’t do much, it’s been a fun few days of slowing down and tuning in.

Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about how I spend my time. I’ve got a lot of exciting things happening with the blog and my business and it’s easy for me to spend hours on end on my laptop. And lately it would seem my kids are just as attached to their technology. Aiden could spend all day, everyday, playing video games – or watching YouTube videos on the iPad on how to play video games. Then there’s Ireland who LOVES her movies. I’m embarrassed to say how often I look around and we’re all tuned into our own devices…and not with each other.

It’s not that I think technology is evil, in fact, I’m quite the fan. But with all things, moderation is key. So over this past long weekend, I made sure we took daily technology breaks. Instead of leaving the house (and inevitably spending money) I decided to enjoy what we have right here at home – the hot tub.

When we bought our home it came with a hot tub. While it’s something I never would have thought of investing in before, I have to say I love having it. We keep the temperature warm but not too hot – perfect for my kiddos little bodies and this pregnant belly of mine. So with no school for a few days and some glorious Washington sunshine making an appearance, it seemed like the perfect treat.

And oh was it nice! The bubbles and warm water were so relaxing for my growing, achy body. But the best part, by far, was just spending time with my kids.

Ireland will be 5 next month. 5!!! I get emotional just thinking about it. It doesn’t seem possible, really. Knowing that I have less than 30 days of having a four year old daughter sorta breaks my heart. Because I have to say, I LOVE her at four. The only way I can describe it is at four, she is pure magic to me.

I’m in no way saying she’s perfect at four. If anything, we have lots of struggles. But beyond any frustrations I might have, she truly is the sparkle in my days. My love for her is simply indescribable.

And I know that I will love her just as much at five. In fact, I know I will love her even more as I continue to fall deeper and deeper in love with both of my children every day. Five will be fantastic and bring with it a whole new set of adventures and magic – but that doesn’t keep me from wanting to freeze time; to soak up every second of my beautiful 4 year old little girl.

As much as these thoughts swirl around in my head (especially at night during my sleepless nights of pregnancy insomnia), it doesn’t keep me from wasting time. Precious hours are still wasted away, in front of my laptop as my kids play video games and watch movies. And sometimes, that’s okay. Because like they say, the years are short but often the days are long.

But this weekend, I made the conscious effort to cherish my time a little bit more. To turn off the TV, set down the iPhone, throw on our suits and enter our Hot Tub Time Machine.

Not the type of time machine that transports you to another place and time. But rather, a time machine that helps you slow down and live precisely, amazingly in the moment.

Which is exactly where I needed to be.

It might not be the hot tub for you. Maybe it’s a walk around the neighborhood or building a blanket fort in the living room (other favorite activities of ours too). Whatever it is, I encourage you to fire up your time machine today. Everyday.

Close your laptop. Log off of Facebook. Put the phone away. Give the TV the day off.

And go jump into your time machine – take my word on it, the water’s just fine!

xoxo, Megan