I think it’s safe to say this past year we’ve spent more time with our family than we may have in years. Concentrated time together. Has it been difficult for you and your loved ones to be together so much … or has it brought you closer together? Or maybe a combination of both?
Or maybe, you’re one of the essential workers. As a result, you’ve had less time together because you’re working more hours, exhausted when you come home with only enough time to get some sleep and start over again the next day.
Regardless of your life situation, one thing this past year has taught us is the importance of making memories together. And being intentional about it.
Sometimes that means laying on the couch and having a movie marathon. Sometimes that means getting off the couch and participating in an activity only one person in the family loves, and not complaining. Sometimes it means taking activities you do regularly (like playing a board game) and changing out the rules to keep it fresh and more interesting.
Being intentional about making memories doesn’t have to be expensive. All it takes is a little creativity, a great attitude, and time. Some memory-making activities will flop. (Ask me about our Quarantine House instead of Gingerbread house last April.) Some activities will be favorites and will want to be repeated multiple times. And others will be once-in-a-lifetime experiences your loved one and you will always remember with laughter.
What’s one memory you can make with your family this week? What’s one way you can increase the intentionality around that memory?
© Cheri Swalwell 2021