Thank you, Yoga.

When I was 32 years old, I learned how to sit still.

And that has made all the difference in parenting.

I am aware of the things I do well as a parent, but the glaring shortcomings are where my mind rests at the end of the day. More often than not, Brian and I look at each other at the end of the day and truly wonder WHAT are we doing. Besides winging it, that is.

So I'm good at moving and planning and changing diapers with one hand, but I am not good at sitting still or resting or enjoying a lingering puzzle on the floor.  I'm good at not caring what they wear, but I'm not real good at brushing their teeth.

And deciding to stay home for a little while with the kids shifted my sources of affirmation (hello, paycheck and office community) and sense of productivity (I know I kept the kids alive all day, but I have nothing to show for the last 16 hours).

So I found a yoga studio and went to learn to sit still. It took 2 years. And I still consider it a practice, not an achievement.

By being still, I am better for my kids I think. I listen more. Finishing a puzzle on the floor is not so mind-numbingly dreadful. And I have less guilt about the things I still find dreadful.

So, thank you, Yoga, for teaching me to sit still and enjoy it.  I am a better parent because of you.
Namaste, y'all.