Timing is Everything

Okay, so I would love to be thoughtful and intentional all the time, savor every minute, bask in the glow of the love I feel from those around me... but there are times when I just have to cook dinner, do the laundry, or put the dishes away and I lack Mary Poppin's creative ability to make such chores a game. I need a minute to get things done and it seems like that is the precise moment that Ethan can not live with out me. When he was very little I remember him standing at the gate we had blocking the kitchen and screaming for me to pick him up when I was cooking. I was so conflicted - I wanted to hold him and be with him too as much as he desired my attention but I also had responsibilities. You know what I mean - you've been there right?

My solution is still a great one for conflicts we face. The timer. I love the one from pampered chef because it can stick to the fridge or my pants and has a bunch of other fun features. I suppose any old timer would work. I set the timer, giving us both time. I tell him he will have 15 minutes after he gives me 15 minutes or visa versa I will give him 15 minutes and then he needs to allow me that time. It is phenomenal how it relieves your stress and allows you to be totally present until the timer goes off and totally at task (mostly guilt free) till it goes off again.

I also use the timer for, "okay in 15 minutes you have to get ready for bed" or "you need to try to us the potty in 30 minutes" (that was a few years ago thankfully) and of course quiet time and time outs. He uses it on me too sometimes or requests that I set the timer. The timer is the neutral party that neither of us can argue with.

I hope it works for you, I'd love to hear any suggestions or experiences you might have!