More Time

I need it. In the consumer-driven society that we live in, where everything is available for a price, how does one get more time?

I feel like I'm constantly watching the clocks and calendars right now. During the kid part of the week, I'm watching the clock to make sure we're getting everything done that needs to get done. Yesterday that included laundry, food, baths, homework, playtime, time to clean, more food, more playtime, and eventually mellow time in front of a movie. In the morning, I'm watching the clock to make sure I've got enough time to get the kids up, dressed, ready for the day, while still taking care of myself.

When I don't have the kids, I'm still trying to balance things. In the last non-kid week, I filed and served divorce papers, starting the refinancing on my house, began to think about starting my Christmas shopping, and even enjoyed an adult beverage (two of them, actually!)

My biggest concern is that I'm so busy watching the clocks and calendars that I'm not appreciating the now. When I catch myself, I can slow down, and enjoy the moment, but how much am I missing? How many extra opportunities for "I love you" and hugs and kisses am I missing, because I'm thinking about what has to happen next hour, the next day, the next week?