3-2-1 Get Balanced Wednesday
by Dr. Donnie
“Helping you align your daily behaviors with your priorities in life.”
3 Ideas from me, 2 Quotes from others, and 1 Question to help you reflect on your work-life wellness and balance habits this week.
3 Ideas from Me
I.
When my children were young, I used to take them out to a restaurant for dessert and ice cream. I would do this as a one-on-one time with Dad. I raised four children and would usually do this once per week.
I started this process when my first child, Rachel, turned four. I would select a nice booth table and have her sit across from me. It was our daddy/daughter date. I have many beautiful memories with her and the other children when they came of age.
II.
I continued this parent/child practice for many years. I always looked forward to it. The venues changed over the years; however, the mission didn’t. One recent positive attribute of this came to a realization this month.
My daughter Rachel lives in Dallas, and we live in Florida. She called me the other week and asked me a question that really opened my eyes. She said, “Dad, do you remember all the daddy/daughter dates we had together, from going out to ice cream and coffee shops when I got older?” I said of course I do. Those were some great times.
III.
She said,” They sure were Dad. They are some of my best memories.” The next thing she said made me look like a deer in headlights. She asked, “I’ve been living in Dallas for six months; when are you going to come visit me? I like our FaceTime and phone calls, but just because I’m living on my own doesn’t mean I don’t need time with my dad.”
Five days ago, I flew to Dallas and spent a long weekend with her. We went on beautiful walks and runs. We enjoyed our coffee shop visits, lunches, and dinners. We laughed, talked, and reminisced a bit. We thoroughly enjoyed our time with each other. Lesson learned: Don’t stop believing in the magic of spending time with our children! I love you, Rachel!
2 Quotes from Others
I.
“”Every day is an opportunity to make new happy memories with your kids.”
— Unknown
“Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children…”
– Proverbs 17:6
1 Question for You
Do you have a child or two who could benefit from one-on-one time with you? What are you waiting for?
Dr. Donnie’s Answer: In short, I need to reach out to my firefighter son, Donnie III, and catch up. I then need to schedule a time for us to go fishing together. I’m going to get this accomplished this week!
I would love to hear your answer and if you find this newsletter helpful and encouraging. Email: [email protected]
Please share this newsletter with your friends and co-workers via email by copying the link:
https://donniehutchinson.com/blog/
Until next week, may God bless you, your family and may the Glory be to God.
– Dr. Donnie Hutchinson
The format and style of this newsletter were inspired and highly influenced by James Clear 3-2-1 Newsletter. The content is strictly Dr. Donnie’s.