Make Sure To Take Every Second When The Moments Arrive - Melissa Johnson

My husband isn't always able to spend quality time to his kids, me or for even that matter himself. Those are tough moments, because in general I can fix almost anything, except when they just want his time and attention and he is unable to give it. He is not always like that, there are moments that are great, and in those moments I try to be less so he can be more. Our kids need the influence of both parents, and I usually can tell the difference between great and oh no we are going down the hill quickly. I make sure they all have time with their dad alone and all together. He may not be able to give him his best self everyday because in that moment of time he is not able to give his self the best. But they are not lacking his attention and love with quality moments that they will love forever etched in their mind and hearts. You really have to work hard to have them, but they are worth it for both our efforts.
Nicholas flies kites with his dad, they bike ride, they go to trips by the lake and race boats, and they build block villages on mind craft. He does bath time, and reads books. He likes to build Legos and listen to how Nicholas' day went. He takes them on local outings when he is up for it. Whatever they are into he comes to their world.
Addison gets to play babies and dress up. They color and draw, and they snuggle and watch television and princess movies galore is what she's really into right now. They take walks around the yard and the last topic they talked about was, what are all the animals that are biters? It's harder than you think, to come up with answers for her ever curious questions, which always requires very lengthy answers. Addison has a way about her that keeps his mind busy in a positive way. She is great for him.

Jasmine our oldest comes and tell stories, they share funny videos, and snap chats. He takes her out for lunch dates and talks about school and sports. They hits Volleyballs and tosses softballs. He shows up to her games.  Even if Nathan stands way back in the quiet where is is most comfortable. She knows she is important.

We grill out, we have a small fire and s'mores. I look up, and keep a calendar of all the free activities available around each month. I keep our budget, which is tight, and keep the fun coming. It does not have to be expensive to be fun.  I never tell the kids, so they are just up for nice surprises not disappointments if he can’t handle it and has to back out. I can assure you that otherwise it would be tear producing melt downs. I have found that the kids can keep Nate out of a bad mood,, and they really love this time. I love staying connected as a family. Life changed for us, but it does not mean any the less quality.  It just means we all adapt and stay flexible to new ways. They are becoming better adults having to think of other needs and not focus just on themselves.
They are all starting to understand that dad can not do some things somtimes. They have not questioned why, they understand to be the best sometimes he just needs quiet time. I hope for them it balances out the “off days” and moments. I hope the more we learn and grow we keep growing together. These kids already are growing up in today world have it tougher. Bigger homework loads, tougher topics earlier on, more stress and most certainly not as safe of a world. Then add on Veteran and/or military family to the pile. It just creates so much more than their little hearts and minds can take sometimes. I love their laughter, and the strength all of them show. They really give all and preserve even when it a really tough day. They talk feelings and are learning better ways to express the anger the feel. Each one of the helping each other. Sometimes it not as bad as it seems it would be and those are the moments I cherish and stay in the now when they are here. Don’t forget to enjoy life and not just let it pass you by. Stop and smell the flowers. We do. The Johnsons