Lisa Hood

Alan and I have started having date nights once a week.  So far we’ve gone to an Open House @ Kelsey’s school, out to dinner and to buy appliances.  While they may not sound romantic, it is so wonderful to spend time just the two of us.  Getting out of the house ensures we won’t be distracted by internet or TV or a book.   I’ve also asked the kids to schedule one day a month when we can do something one on one.  Until now, we’ve had three set dates a year: their birthdays, school shopping day and Christmas shopping day.  As they’re getting older, it’s more important than ever to spend time with each one of them.  They’re so different when they’re not competing for addition.

Kelsey and I had our first date Thursday night.  She saw Nancy and then we went to El Pollo Loco for dinner. We just sat and talked for over an hour. She told me how she’s been feeling lately, very positive and upbeat, ready to take on the world and make changes for the better. It was so nice to tune out everything else and just connect with my daughter. Then we went shopping for a flash drive, and she ended up buying a couple of really cute tops.  I hope Tay schedules time for us to spend together. 

My mom and I are also scheduling one day a month to spend time together.  Today we went to lunch and then a massage. I forgot how WONDERFUL it feels to get a massage.  Lunch was nice and for the first time in oh, about 16 years, my mom and I had a conversation just between the two of us.  She’s also going to try and spend one on one time with the kids. 

The most important part of my life is my family.  It’s about time I prioritize my loved ones and show them my undivided attention.