Now that we are already in the month of March, I find myself reflecting on life and living it to the fullest, particularly as I prepare to celebrate a significant milestone: my father’s 100th birthday would have been next week. I love my Irish heritage and celebrating St. Paddy’s day since I was a kid, which has a special meaning for our family because it is also my dad’s birthday. He graced this earth for 95 years and lived a life filled with adventure, love, and countless moments that shaped who I am today. My father was a decorated pilot, yet the most cherished memories I hold dear are not the grand achievements, but the simple, quiet moments we shared—like feeding the ducks at our local pond after he would return home from his flying trips. We sat together, tossed breadcrumbs into the water, and talked and laughed for hours. Just a dose of good ol’ quality time, something that costs nothing, and seems a bit foreign in today’s world with all of the technology that surrounds and consumes us at every turn.
In a world that often emphasizes the rat race—the hustle for success, accolades, and recognition—it’s essential to remember that the true essence of life lies in the details. The small moments. It’s in the laughter shared over a family meal, the quiet conversations that stretch into the night, and those spontaneous adventures that create lasting memories (and great stories to tell our grand kids!) As mothers, we often pour ourselves into our families, crafting magical moments that may seem small but are monumental in the fabric of our lives.
Love is in the Details
My father’s legacy is a testament to the power of love and connection, following your passion, and being present. While he soared through the skies flying all around the world, his heart always brought him home. It was during our simple outings that I felt the most loved—the moments that reminded me of the importance of being present. In our busy lives, it’s easy to overlook these little moments, but they are the threads that weave our families together, and I am trying to make the most of what time I have left with our youngest before she graduates. It’s spring break time around here, too, and I’m so grateful next week I will have all three girls at home. I’m finding that spending time making dinner together, playing a game, sitting at the kitchen counter catching up, and watching a movie is just as much fun as planning a big expensive trip. These are special times indeed.
As we honor our loved ones and squeeze out lots of quality time with them, let’s take the time to celebrate the small things that matter most. Here are a few ways to take a moment to reflect on your motherhood journey, and to embrace the beauty YOU have created in everyday moments:
1. Create a mom “Highlight Reel”
Do you remember the first time you held your baby? Have you thought about that day in a while, or your first Mother’s Day. Just like in sports when athletes create their Highlight Reel, take a moment to sit down and reflect on the past 15, 20 or 25 years (or maybe more) since becoming a mom. What are your favorite memories? What are your favorite qualities in yourself that you have passed down to your family? What are some of your favorite family moments? Perhaps it’s a funny incident during a road trip, a holiday tradition, or a simple evening spent playing board games. Write these moments down; they are the gems of your family story, and YOU helped create this! Take some time to really look back at your motherhood journey and savor the great milestones and memories. (More on this in Chapter 3 of my book btw).
2. Practice Gratitude
Each day, take a few minutes to express gratitude for the little things. It could be a cozy hug from your child, a text they responded to…finally!, a shared laugh at dinner, or the peaceful stillness during your morning cup of coffee. This practice shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have, nurturing a sense of contentment and joy.
3. Engage in Unplugged Activities
In today’s digital age, it’s vital to disconnect from technology and engage in activities that foster connection. Plan a family outing to a local park, embark on a hike, or simply put a phone basket in your kitchen during dinner time so you can truly enjoy each other’s company. As my youngest daughter is getting ready to graduate and move out, these dinners are becoming more sacred for me and I’m trying to soak up each and every one of them before she leaves the nest in September. Putting our phones in our phone “time-out” basket encourages conversation and connection without distractions. (I really want to think of a clever name for our phone “time out” basket… If you have any good ones, email me at hello@theemptynesterclub.com)
4. Start a Family Tradition
Consider starting a family tradition that pays homage to the little things. It could be a weekly family game night, a monthly outing to a new place, or Sunday night dinner and game night (our fav). Traditions create touchstones for your family, enriching your shared experiences. A month ago we started a new tradition with our youngest of playing a card game after dinner and watching an uplifting/funny show. We chose Modern Family. I’ve never seen it before! It’s hilarious and I highly recommend it… It’s great to watch with your kids. I felt a little weird for the three of us to be watching a new series without my other two daughters, but it’s still fun and healthy for us to do this. Times are changing!
5. Reflect and Share Stories
Encourage family members to share their favorite memories and stories. Create a family scrapbook, journal, group text, or shared picture/notes album where everyone can contribute. This not only preserves memories but also strengthens your family’s bond as you laugh and reminisce together.
As I celebrate my father’s legacy this March, a man who lived his life to the fullest and followed his dreams, I invite you to embrace the beauty of the little moments in your own life. Remember, it’s not only about the accolades or the milestones; it’s about the love, laughter, and connections we create along the way. By honoring the small things, we enrich our lives and nurture a legacy of love for generations to come.
Let’s cherish every moment, big or small, as we navigate the journey of motherhood, becoming Empty Nesters, and thriving in our next chapter. After all, in the end, it’s these magical mini moments that truly make life worth living. Happy reflecting!
PS Miss you Dad, today and always.
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