I am not sure back on March 13th that I thought on September 2nd we would still be wearing masks and somewhat quarantined. I did not think my kids would be starting out their school year sitting in front of chromebooks. I wonder how all kids will act when they are able to return to school. Will they be so excited when they see the chromebook cart coming down the hallway? Or when their teacher tells them they can have free time on the chromebooks? I am sure after a couple of weeks of “regular” school they will be ready for chromebooks again. Truly, my main concern though is how will they socialize? We are in a world where so many decide to pick up their smartphones and/or tablets than have a conversation. We can be sitting right by someone, but rather than ask them how their day was we would rather scroll through the highlight reel of our so-called friends. We have become addicted to our smartphones and devices. I mean friends we are even taking them into the bathroom with us. Recently, I was getting after my kids for their need to have their phones to snapchat or to check their instagram, but when I have some downtime what do I do? When I am waiting for my kids at the orthodontist office or waiting for cross country practice to get over. Why don’t we pack a book with us, write a note in a card, or even just sit in quiet and enjoy the stillness (but don’t fall asleep). The last two times I went over to visit my mom I have left my phone at home on purpose. I want to be in the moment with her and my family while I am there. I don’t need to be distracted by my phone. The reason I drove the 45 minutes over there was to visit here not to look at my phone. How many moments are we missing with our family and friends because we won’t put down the smartphone? I challenge you this week to not crawl into bed with your phone. A week ago I moved my phone charger out into the dining room and now I leave my phone there to charge. I know, I know your phone is your alarm clock. Mine was too. Guess what you can buy an alarm clock on Amazon for $15 or less. I did and now birds chirping wake me up. Make a new bedtime ritual. Maybe you do nighttime yoga, read 10-15 pages in a motivational book (need suggestions, just ask), read with your kids, or ask a loved one how their day was today. I hope you lead by example for your children, family, and friends. I hope your nights become more peaceful, you read more books, and draw closer to those whom you love. By the way, how was your day today?
