A while ago, Justin Timberlake released a song called, “Take Back the Night.” I’ve been humming it all evening, because today, spurred by the almost-13 year old and his independent decision to join a club soccer team without the appropriate level of parental notice, I decided it’s time to “take back the night.” My night.
Lately, due partly to our family’s unique set of circumstances, I have donned a taxi cap for an average of three hours each afternoon/evening. This shoved back dinner, which shoved back the kids’ bedtimes…which began to monkey with that precious time later in the evening where Jeff and I can sit, talk and [gasp] actually have a conversation or watch a movie together. We don’t usually go out on weekends for actual “dates,” so that hour or two at the end of the day is truly important to us. It isn’t that I want to shortchange the kids, since sports are definitely a huge part of their lives, but we’ve fallen a bit too far out of whack.

And it’s time to (say it with me now) take back the night.

I am hopeful that very soon we can sit down with all parties involved, and outline a do-able calendar which allows them to participate in training sessions, while not disrupting every evening of the week. As with everything, there’s much to be said for moderation. And in this case, moderation seems to be the key for all of us to carry on happily.

GRATITUESDAY
Last week I dedicated GratiTuesday to my BFF, Maria, on her birthday. Today, I want to shift focus and express gratitude for the situations, opportunities and events that have shaped themselves into the story of my life. I’ve been a long-time believer in things happening for a reason. I now humbly acknowledge those “reasons” being part of God’s plan for me. I don’t know if it happens to everyone around middle age, but over the past couple of years, it feels like things are falling into place a bit more. Things feel “right;” as they’re supposed to be. To me? This is both comfortable and comforting. I am so extremely grateful for all of the blessings and gifts given so far. I eagerly and faithfully wait for what’s to come, as well.