But When is it Done?

It’s a bit embarrassing to share this because it’s one of those things that when you read it, you’re going to have very clear solutions to my problem and I will feel silly because you are going to be very right. But I write this anyhow, not in hopes of advice but in case you might gain some insight into your own challenges. Heck, this might not be your type of “problem” so in that case, it’s one of those things you read and say, “Oh people are waayy crazier than me, especially this Christina person.” Let’s begin…

My day starts with high expectations and big to-do lists but as the three o’ clock hour approaches (pick up time from school really signifies to me that much of the day has passed) I feel like I’m trying to outrun bedtime.

When the kids go to sleep, I have a couple hours to either rest, work, hang with my husband or indulge in a hobby (digital lettering is my newest obsession).

So around 10:30, my husband encourages me to get ready for bedtime (I’d stay up way later if I lived alone). Some nights, these are the kind of thoughts that come rushing in…

“Oh, I haven’t gotten back to _______.”

“Shoot! I was supposed to order the next size up in pants for ______.”

“Was that birthday party last weekend or this coming weekend? I have to remember to buy a gift. Should I write a reminder?”

“Do the kids have a dress up day at school this week?”

You get the idea. PS on nights like these, I use a CBD roller on my neck and wrists that can switch my brain off like a light.

You see, each day is very full, much like your own, I’m guessing. Making meals, doing laundry, cleaning up dumped out sunflower seeds, diapers, bills, playtime… Each thing takes time, then there’s transition time between tasks, rest and enjoyment. I truly want all these aspects to make up a fulfilling day.

But then how do I wind my day down, seeing the day as a success rather than a list of shortcomings?

One thing I’ve been doing when the flood of last minute to-dos come rushing in at night is gently saying to myself…

“Ok, the day is coming to an end and you are done. There are things that can be done another day. You need rest. You did a good job today. Remember a moment where you felt in connection today. That is what makes your days, what makes your life.”

Stepping out of my own mind and speaking to myself like a friend is so much more convincing. Ha! Or how I’d talk to my kids if I heard these worries. Truly wanting them to know that “Everything is going to be OK.”