What's Next

I can tell you how many times I have found myself rushing to plan. That sounds weird even as I type it. But throughout my life I find myself planning for the next stage. Which can be a good thing in some respects but there are times when I missed some great things in the moment because my eyes were focused on being ready for what comes next.

When I was a teenager I spent countless hours planning my wedding (not really, but in my head anyway) I was obsessed with bride magazines. (Sadly, that isn't much of a thing anymore but back in the day a two inch thick bride magazine could keep me entertained for hours.) By the time I was 15, I had my dress picked out! (That page still sits in my hope chest.) I didn't actually get married until I was 34 years old so that dress was very out of style. (Thank goodness because it was PINK, I chose it in 1980!) You may be thinking so what, girls dream of their future, and you'd be right but that was only the beginning.

When I got married I immediately started planning for a baby. (I hear you, I was 34 after all, so maybe justifiable) But then as the babies came I was planning for the next stage. Looking at my 5 year old son, I got teary eyed just knowing he'd be in college soon. Ridiculous right? Right! I continually am trying to figure out what I should DO next. However, with all the planning I do, things don't work out my way. They work out God's way, which is infinitely better. So why not just let things be.

I know how to be in the moment in some cases. Like I wouldn't go on a road trip focused only on arriving in a city and then hurrying off to the next. I don't rush through a museum, I like to take my time and enjoy each piece of art. I certainly don't rush through a store (as my whole family can attest. Does not matter which store either, could be a grocery store or a hardware store. Point is I can slow down for some things, but the milestones I seem to be in a rush to get through.

I have enjoyed this past week with my husband, but if you remember I started it thinking this may be a glimpse into what an empty nest looks like. My youngest child is 11! I have got time. Is this just me or do any of you experience this? Does it diminish the here and now?

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Broccoli Cheese

From the store! Shameful but easy.