Decisions, decisions: how to set priorities
This weekend has been a lesson on how to set priorities. I took Monday off from work, so Larry and I could take advantage of the 4th of July holiday for an extended stay at Hawkes Landing. Usually, Hawkes Landing is a perfect place for me to write, so I figured I’d have no problem pulling together today’s post.
So Saturday when I sat down at the computer and just wasn’t feeling it, I told myself no problem, you have two full days; put the computer away, live life, and come back refreshed and ready to write tomorrow. Larry and I went on a hike and played Yahtzee. I exercised, meditated, and read a book.
Sunday morning I went for a run, fully intending to write as soon as I got back, but guess what? When I returned, we had visitors. Kenzi and Buddy brought the grandchildren up. We went four-wheeling, ate lunch, and sat on the deck visiting until it was time for them to be on their way.
Just as I thought I might write, Travis and the children arrived. More visiting on the deck, laughing, snacking, and enjoying the view.
By the time they headed home, it was dinner time, and Larry and I were ready to relax. There’s always tomorrow for writing I told myself. I’ll do it first thing in the morning before anything can interrupt me.
But then we got a text; our neighbors were at their nearby cabin and wondered if we’d like to meet for breakfast at Chick’s Cafe in Heber City. Of course, we would. And after breakfast? More visitors, this time Courtney and the children.
Many times, Larry and I spend full weekends up here without speaking to a soul except each other. This trip, we had 14 visitors. I loved every minute of it, but I confess at times there was this nagging voice in the back of my head—you have a blog post due; you should be working. I thought back to a post I wrote in 2015, The best things in life are not on a to-do list, a lesson I evidently have to learn over and over.
So I told that nagging voice to be quiet, that my commitment to my blog is strong, but that my relationships with the people I love are more important, and that the grandchildren will only be children for a short time. Remember how fast my own daughters grew up?
And guess what? I managed to enjoy the family and friends and still write a blog post that I hope was entertaining and possibly even useful.
Your turn
- How do you set priorities when choosing between two important things? Do you analyze or gut check, or a combination of both?
- Once you decide, how do you shut down the guilt about the activity postponed or neglected?
I think you made very good decisions. How nice that so much of your family came to see you! It’s an old cliche (probably a church one) but it’s a good one: Family comes first.
I agree Cindy. My happiest memories are those of family and friends–not necessarily checking things off the to-do list. I love writing, and it serves a good purpose for me, but I have to take advantage of the moments when my family is around me. I love you!
Hi Christie,
This is a good study in finding and holding what you value most. I am always blogging – well most of the time – so if visiting with fam and friends I squeeze in a post or some networking. Works like a charm. Just like this past weekend when I drove to North Carolina and spent 4 days with the in-laws. A little blogging time. A lotta family time.
Well done 🙂
Ryan
Thanks for taking time to check in, Ryan. You’ve obviously found a good balance. I have a hard time being spontaneous. I tend to live by a schedule and my to-do list. It’s not always a bad thing–I get a lot done and I’m dependable–but I definitely want to leave room for unplanned fun.
You built memories, which will give you even more to write about later. ❤️
So true Connie. It looks like you’ve built some pretty great memories so far this trip. I love seeing the pictures of your family playing together.
Your life, your family, and your friends are what’s most important, of course you know that already. The blog can wait, it will survive! Thank you Christie for linking up and co-hosting with me at the #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty. I shared this post.
Thanks Dee. I don’t know how you have time to do all the things you do. You’re amazing!
Sounds like you had a fantastic 4th of July weekend, Christie. I am glad that you didn’t let anything get in the way of that. Great decision making.
Thank you for co–hosting and for sharing this post.
#BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty
Thanks Donna!
Was great to have all the visitors this week, we had some great laughs and made new memories . And it was great to see our next door neighbors at breakfast. Funny how we spend 10 days with them at their condo in Hawaii the last few years,, and besides breakfast Monday , it’s the only time we have managed to get together!! Life gets crazy and I’m so glad you keep us “in check” before and after your blogging?
Love you !❌⭕️❌⭕️
It was a great weekend. We are fortunate to have so many wonderful people in our lives–including each other. XOXO
It is hard not to want to blog all the time isn’t it Christie but this year I’ve made a conscious effort to prioritise my life and enjoy it more. The blog will always be there but we need to make special memories with family and friends. Thanks for reminding us of our priorities and co-hosting #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty. I’ve shared.
Thanks Sue. Here’s to a well-balanced life for both of us!
It’s important to take time to enjoy life’s special moments. Great post Christie! Thank you for sharing and co-hosting at #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty.
So true, Lori. Thanks!
Always choose family and friends over everything else. Good choices. Thank you for sharing at #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty!
Thanks Clearissa!
excellent post, totally agree holding onto special moments and taking a break form all the craziness.
Thanks for stopping by Karen and taking the time to comment.
I totally agree. Real life and real relationships (especially family) take priority over online activities. Thank you for linking up at #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty. I’m sharing your link on social media.
Carol (“Mimi”) from Home with Mimi
Thanks Carol! As always, it is a pleasure working with you on #BloggingGrandmothersLinkParty.