“I prefer riding bikes over sleep and toys!” Evelyn shouted as we circled back up the driveway, retracing our bike’s path. After hearing her desire the day before but being unable to fulfill it due to work constraints, I made a mental note to address it later. So, after my 10 am virtual call, I found her in her playroom and asked, “Want to ride bikes?”
One key piece of parenting wisdom has made navigating the chaos of parenthood so much easier: the concept of secure attachment. Secure attachment, the gold standard in relationships, involves meeting a child’s needs and teaching them how to meet their own. Recognizing that no parent is 100% attuned, I learned that creating a securely attached child involves meeting 20-30% of their needs. However, when a child escalates their needs with a strong desire like “I really want you!” securely attached parents strive to meet those needs 100% of the time.
As we approach the new year, something exciting might be on the horizon. Although not concrete, hearing about others inspired by their workout routines has sparked some ideas. For most of my life, the gym, yoga, running, and hiking have been integral to my daily routine. However, since having Evelyn, I’ve felt a disconnection from this part of myself. Despite attempts to reignite these activities, it’s been like pulling the cord on a lawnmower engine that won’t start. Feeling defeated, I pretend to be okay with the current state of things. Sure I’ve had stints with yoga, but the consistent stability I once knew is missing. Looking to the future, envisioning a dream space with a Peloton, a mirror, and a floor mat is delightful, but the reality of inaction leaves me feeling perpetually blah.
Is a New Year’s resolution on the horizon? Perhaps, but a lighter version. Last year, I followed Yoga with Adriene on YouTube. Starting January 1st, she posts a new class daily for the month. Being part of that community felt uplifting, and I’m considering picking it up again. Ok, I’ll do it. Three more days, and I’ll be back to yoga.
Now, it’s time to pack. We’re catching a morning ferry to Bainbridge Island. Hoping the weather forecast holds true for clear skies, as there’s nothing quite like that boat ride with the mountains and islands in view.
Take care. Love Jaclynn
PS This post’s photo is of us at the car wash getting the triple sud treatment. As the main attraction of our day it was a lot of fun, however our car remained half dirty. Dave called Elephant Car, they cut us a check and it’s in the mail.
Going On 40 