Slow Parenting

Yesterday was one of those beautiful, warm fall days.  We spent the majority of the day inside where I tended to the feeding and sleeping needs of my kids.  We would have missed out on this perfect day had Ari not asked to go on a hike after he woke up from his afternoon nap.  It was 5pm already, and I should have been starting supper, but I chose to listen to my kid instead.  It was a great idea and an opportunity to spend quality time together.  Our dinner plans were easily changed and we enjoyed every last drop of fall colour and warm sunshine.  We even stopped to pick out a pumpkin on the way home!

I've been reading a bit about the movement of 'slow parenting', and yesterday's experience felt like a true slow parenting moment.  Forgetting about what needs to get done and just being in the moment with your children.  Being present and allowing your children to explore the world at their own pace -- that's the ticket to happiness for all.