Yesterday evening, Dennis, Teo and I did a boxing workout in our very hot garage. The guys had been talking about getting a heavy bag for months and then they went on sale at the local sporting goods store. So, they got their wish and a 100 pound heavy bag now dominates our garage. When the kids were up in Humboldt earlier this summer, I did my first workout with Dennis and really enjoyed it!
With the Rocky soundtrack in the background, we rotated rounds on the bag and I got such a kick out of watching Mateo punch! He is pretty coordinated and loves all kinds of physical activity. It’s really cool to watch the dynamic when Dennis is teaching Teo how to do something or encouraging his efforts. Teo really likes to do what’s expected and do it well. When I’m teaching him something, I can feel our inner perfectionists colliding and it doesn’t bring out the best in either of us. Whereas, Dennis is just matter-of-fact and unemotional as he coaches and teaches. I feel such peace when they’re interacting, like I can just step back and rest.
Taking in the moment, I couldn’t help but lament at how big Mateo looks now – especially while wailing away on a 100 pound heavy bag! At one point Dennis and I locked eyes after he’d just reminded Teo to “Keep your wrist straight!” and we both smiled. There’s truly nothing like the bond of two parents sharing love and devotion for this particular child. I quipped, “These are the days of our lives” and Dennis solemnly nodded. This is our shorthand for reminding ourselves that we’re going to look back on these days with longing when the kids grow up and leave our nest.
Later in the evening, I sat in the reading chair in our bedroom while Sienna was in the shower. Suddenly, through the noise of falling water, I noticed she was singing “True Colors”. Oh how I love her sweet singing voice! I put my book down and just listened, knowing I was fortunate to hear this private moment. My mom is a singer and she has encouraged Sienna to sing, praising her beautiful voice. I’ve also encouraged her, but she’s reluctant to perform in front of people. I reflected on her nervousness about performing as I listened to her sing:
I see your true colors
Shining through
I see your true colors
And that’s why I love you
So don’t be afraid to let them show
Your true colors
True colors are beautiful
This morning, Sienna has to get up early for math tutoring so I went into her room to wake her up. As I gently stroked her face, she smiled and asked me to stay a minute. I cuddled up next to her and kept running my hand over her forehead. The lyrics to “True Colors” were still running through my head, so I softly sang the chorus to her.
“I sure loved hearing you sing last night,” I told her.
“I love you too, Mommy” she replied.
There are so many sweet, sacred moments of connection available to us each day. I can often get caught up in the routines of work, household chores, exercise, preparing meals, reading, and all the rest. When I slow down and pay full attention to the present, to my family and the life unfolding around me, tender moments abound.
Today’s post shows just how present you are! Such precious moments to hold dear and savor! xoxo
I box too!! I have only been doing so for the past year but I am in LOVE with this activity!! All three of my young adult children have had occasion to do so with me, along with my husband more frequently. Treasured experiences for certain! Hugs & blessings to you and your family for all the important time you share together and treasure!!