Tuesday, February 10, 2009

In the Driver's Seat

So, I made a beautiful discovery. It isn’t the most earth friendly thing, but I feel like the personal pay-off for my sanity is worth the carbon footprint. If I keep my children up with activities and fun, and then subsequently drive around at 2 p.m. in the afternoon for around 10 minutes, they will fall asleep for two hours. Yes, two solid hours. Since the weather is nice, I can park and roll down a window and crack open a good book. I just get to take a break from the day and read. As of late I have read about the orphan crisis in Ethiopia, raising African American children with healthy self-images, potty training in a day, and Jesus of Suburbia. I have so enjoyed the reading and thinking that has resulted from this little pocket of time. Today I was contemplating the extravagant grace and inclusivity of Jesus and the radical life he calls us to, while parked in front of someone’s house a street away from my own. It sounds strange, but it is really nice. And, though I adore my children all of the time, I find that I enjoy them even more after a good rest for all of us. Furthermore, I am rejuvenated just in time for the impromptu toddler dance party to the Cars soundtrack which I will be participating in later that afternoon.
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5 comments:

  1. It sounds like we both enjoy the magic that a little afternoon drive brings. :)

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  2. Hey, whatEVER works! Sounds like you guys have a good system going on there. B's cake turned out so cute! I am seriously impressed. :)

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  3. Hey Erin! I blogstalked you! Your kids are beautiful! I think your afternoon plan is amazing! It's a good time for you and them! I love even if I get like 10 minutes a day to read so two hours would be amazing! Way to go mom!

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  4. How awesome Erin. I love that! I remember too, reading while the children slept in the car, and trying not to make a sound!! shhh....So wonderful to hear your ponderings in the car. Jesus does call us to radical discipleship, thanks for the reminder. It ain't easy, but it is good. You are awesome. Can't wait to see you Thursday, and hey, park around my house so you can jump out and be with us! Love you, MR

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  5. Hi Erin, I have also read the Chocolate/Vanilla book and I found it to be so practical and encouraging! I was curious about your comments on the Jesus of Suburbia, as I often ponder how I can be radical while living in a subdivision-ha ha. Do you mind sharing what you're reading? best-karen (Rachael and Jon's friend)-http://thesinglestep.blogspot.com

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