I feel like I’m falling behind. Details and to-dos are frisbees whizzing past my head—some even hitting me—while my hands feel zip-tied behind my back. My overthinking is soaring high, like the turkey vultures sweeping and circling in the sky. Inside, I’m battling, like two rival cliques jockeying for the front row in the lunchroom.
But then, everything quiets. Taking center stage is my dad’s voice echoing down the hall as he reads a Paw Patrol book to Evelyn. Gratitude washes over me—not just because my family is under one roof, making memories, but because I get to savor a break from nightly duties.
Our time together ends tomorrow mid-morning. It will be bittersweet for Grandma and Grandpa to leave, but I’m hoping tomorrow’s goodbye will be a little easier with their next visit already planned for a month from now.
Evelyn’s fifth birthday is coming up soon, and I’m feeling all the emotions. She’s growing up and maturing, and I just want to stop time. I love answering her questions, helping her fill in the gaps in her understanding. I know this will happen less as she gets older, but for now, it’s one of my favorite parts of being a parent.
During their next visit, celebrating Evelyn will be the top priority. Two days ago, she tried out a bike and fell in love with the streamers on the handlebars and the pink and purple glittery paint job. While she believed she wouldn’t get it until her birthday, my dad and I had a quiet conversation in another aisle. He asked if he could buy it right then, and I said of course. When he told her, her jumping up and down and shouting “Woohoo!” was priceless.
I love their relationship, and her “I want you to stay forever” to him. It’s all so sweet for me as his daughter and someone that looks up to him.
Alright, the movie we were watching just ended. I half watched, half typed and now the house is bedding down. I should do the same.
Love, Jaclynn
Going On 40 
“….a break from nightly duties.” I remember those nights. They were the best. And as far as falling behind. I can only speak for myself. I always feel that way – even now with three grown children. But the mere act of slowing down even for a brief second and letting the moment touch your heart/soul has been a big help. It’s given meaning to my life. A beautiful tribute Jaclynn. Thanks for sharing.
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