get out of the rut, Mum!

I have been personally challenged as I scurry to and fro, doing what mothers do that I tend to get stuck in a rut. Though most of what I do is for my family I have been challenged to take the time to let them know how much they mean to me. To let them know I don't just clean, run them places, etc. etc. because it is what Mums do but because I love them. I tend to get less creative and more routine-ish over time. I guess when I think about it, when left to myself I get selfish and not think about how I could create those special times for them, or take that little bit more time to put some flowers on the table, say that compliment (because I am still cranky that he/she hasn't made their bed yet:), show that extra care, etc.

I decided to call upon the creativity of others. I have found lists like this helpful before (marriage ones are always good for reminding) Here are some ideas for showing kids/family you love them, I found floating around cyberspace:

I so desperately need this list to remind me!

• Spend time alone with each of your children. Go out to lunch, take a leisurely walk, or just hang out together letting them know you value them as individuals.

• Celebrate everyday accomplishments. Make a special dinner with your child as the guest of honor to toast losing a tooth, making the soccer team, getting an A on a science paper

• Read "just one more book" even if it's late and you're tired. And don't forget to read to older children who already know how to read themselves. It's a great opportunity to snuggle.

• Get out the photo albums and their baby books and tell your children stories about their beginnings.

• Remind them of something they've taught you.

• Tell them how wonderful it is being their parent and how much you like the way they're growing up.

• Let your children choose their own clothes. It shows you respect their decision-making ability. Besides, everyone will know you didn't dress them. You would never mix plaid and stripes!

• Get messy with your kids: put your hands in the finger-paint, and mush up that clay.

• Get to know their schedules, friends, and teachers so you can ask, "Did you and Sam sit together at lunch today?" or "What did Mr. Rogers sing in music class?" instead of simply, "What did you do today?"

• Stop washing the dishes and talking on the phone and really listen when they are talking to you.

• Teach your children to play jacks, use a yo-yo, knit, or do something you loved as a child. Or let your child choose something new you can learn together.

• Bend the rules. Let your children put on their boots and jump in the puddles you usually tell them to avoid.

• Cut their sandwiches into shapes with cookie cutter hearts and stars.

• Slip little love notes, jokes, poems, and words of encouragement into your children's lunchboxes, backpacks, or next to their beds (if you leave before they wake up), just to let them know you're thinking about them all day long.

• Let your children overhear you complimenting them to someone else.

• Wear the "jewels" your children make for you and display their artwork proudly in a special, visible place.

• Try not to do all the things your parents did that you vowed never to do to your children.

• Create a secret word, sign, or gesture of affection that only you and your child share.

• Forget about yesterday. Start each day fresh. It's a new opportunity to have a better relationship with your children and to fall in love with them all over again.

• Hug them, kiss them, and say, "I love you" every day, no matter what. Kids thrive on it and it's a daily fix we all need no matter what our age!

..these are someone else's ideas, some may/may not suit you. I just like the idea that lists like these stir up in me the reminder to treasure my God-given family more.

What do you like to do to show your family you love them?