Have Fun

I really could end this post with just the title. It should be that simple: being a dad is fun. Kids love to have fun, and sometimes I forget that I'm still a kid that likes to have fun too. Too often, I find myself getting serious, thinking too much about routines, rules, etc. Although these things are important, taking time to be silly is just as important.

I've been on vacation visiting my brother and his family this week, and we've had a blast. We knew routines would be off, and we were okay with that. The kids have just loved exploring, doing fun things, and playing with new toys. The frustrating part for me though is that they're having so much fun, they're having a really hard time listening. For meal time or bedtime, it's like I'm invisible. They're so caught up in what they're doing, they act like they don't hear me.

It's times like these I need to remind myself to have a little fun. Yes, no one likes to be ignored, but they are in their own little world. I just need to get inside that world of play and fun, connect with them, and then remind them it's time to [clean up, get to the table, brush teeth].

I've found this is especially helpful with Micah. That boy just wants to play and be silly. He does much better if I tell him he has a few minutes of silly time before we put on PJs. Allowing myself to be silly also reminds me that being a dad is fun, and helps me let go of whatever is starting to get me frustrated.

This vacation has also reminded me to importance of doing fun things as a family. My brother is all about helping his kids create fun memories and living life to have fun. He is a great example of a "successful marriage and family [that is] established and maintained upon ...wholesome recreational activities" Life can be so much more enjoyable. when I just relax, stop thinking about messes and planning, and just be in the moment.