Top o’ the Mornin’ to Ya!
TLDR: In today’s heartfelt reflection, I share how simple family activities like library visits and game nights create lasting connections with our children. As parents, the seasons of openness with our kids are precious – investing intentionally now shapes both their future and transforms us in the process.
What?
Last night, we had a beautiful family outing that started at our local library for a board game and puzzle exchange. While I was more excited about the board games, it turned out to be mostly puzzles – which thrilled my wife Leah, daughter Liz and son Spencer. We got some cool puzzles, including a 2000-piece intricate castle puzzle for when grandpa visits.
After the library, we joined my sailing club friends to play bingo. Leah won the first round, and the kids were so patient marking their spots, though they didn’t win anything. I remember winning three times the first year we went. There were only about half as many people as in the past, but we had a great time.
At the library, my daughter Liz asked how many books we could check out (turns out it’s 100!) and I loved watching her confidently engage with the librarian. She ended up with about 15 books, more than half of them graphic novels, which she adores. Spencer found some National Geographic science books about space that he’s been exploring and asking questions about.
Why?
I’m sharing this because I’m in a season of intentionally nurturing connection with my 9 and 11-year-old kids. My 18-year-old went through a period where we weren’t communicating well, and that experience has motivated me to be proactive with my younger children. I want to be the dad they need while they’re still talking and sharing in elementary and middle school – creating that safe place of unconditional love and acceptance where they feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their lives.
Lesson
What I realized while sharing this is that while I initially thought about how much my children are changing, what’s really happening is how much I am changing. By being who I need to be today, I’m preparing for the future I want with my children as they grow older. I’m becomming a better leader. The investment we make in these precious seasons doesn’t just shape their future – it transforms us as parents.
Apply
What season are you in where you need to invest for the future? Or what season do you need to start right now to invest in your future – whether it’s relationships, connections, business, or some other component? Share that with yourself and identify your first step toward making that investment.
You be blessed.
Investing Quality Time for Future Family Connection
