I L-O-V-E a lazy Sunday at home with my husband and cats. Just us. No social obligations, no work responsibility, no feeling like there’s anything we have to get done. Sure, there are things we DO need to get done, but we’re not going to worry about it on Sunday (unless it’s really important). That’s what Monday is for. Scarlett O’Hara was a pessimist, but she had the right mindset for Sunday afternoons:
Scarlett: I can’t think about that right now. If I do, I’ll go crazy. I’ll think about that tomorrow.
Periodic rest is good for us, and is a tradition in various societies and religions throughout history. Americans seem to be really good at trying to fill every waking minute with some kind of social or adventurous activity that is stimulating to the senses. Some of us haven’t done it on purpose, but life gets out of hand and before you know it, you’ve over-committed yourself to various people (kids, friends, family, significant others, etc.) and one day you find that you are constantly running and have no time left for yourself.
It’s important to set personal boundaries to allow yourself periods of good rest. By rest, I mean quiet time to do whatever YOU choose; the things that make you happiest. Sometimes it’s difficult for those of us who have a blurry line between our livelihoods and our social & personal lives. It’s also hard for parents to have quiet time, but if you you feel that you need it, I urge you to find a babysitter and take an afternoon or evening for yourselves. Being selfish once in a while is not bad parenting. It’s preserving your sanity.
You also may find that your work or children are the things that you want to enjoy during your “downtime” and that’s okay too! I’m a blogger, and I’m writing this blog on my lazy Sunday afternoon, in my pajamas, surrounded by napping cats, because I enjoy it. Chris will probably do some coding today too. That’s a source of happiness for him.
But we slept as late as we wanted this morning, made & ate a delicious brunch of biscuits, gravy, & eggs while listening to good music together, and soon we’re going to nap. He’s being a couch potato, watching TV with a big grin on his face. Later on, we might swim in the pool, or play a card game or something. Whatever we want. It’s our time to rest & recharge. If you’re not familiar with the concept, you should try it. If you do know what I’m talking about, enjoy your own time this holiday weekend!
Have a Safe & Happy Independence Day 
