Finding Joy in Everyday Moments

Recently, I haven’t experienced any major events, but I find myself wanting to better organize and appreciate the small, everyday moments. So, I’ve decided to start documenting the little things happening around me. Writing it all down helps me see the beauty and growth in the ordinary parts of life.

About My Son:

My son has recently become captivated by board games, especially a kids’ version of chess. Each night before bedtime, he eagerly sets out his game, hoping to play a few rounds with me or his dad. What amazes me most is the transformation I’ve seen in how he approaches the game. Initially, he wasn’t too concerned with the rules and often disregarded the directional arrows on the pieces, making moves without much thought. However, over time, he’s developed a keen sense of strategy, carefully placing each piece and even predicting possible outcomes based on his moves. This shift in his approach surprised me—it feels like a glimpse into his growing maturity. Although he sometimes becomes so absorbed in his strategy that he loses sight of the bigger picture, it’s remarkable to see this level of concentration and planning in a child who has just turned five. Watching him think things through independently and make decisions based on his own reasoning fills me with pride.

His determination also shines through in his KUMON assignments. Despite his complaints and occasional desire to quit because the workload feels overwhelming, he keeps pushing forward. I’ve been there to encourage him, explaining that persistence brings lasting rewards, even if the benefits aren’t immediately obvious. I want him to understand that his efforts will pay off in ways he may not realize yet, and I’m fully committed to supporting him in this journey. His resilience and willingness to persevere are qualities I hope will carry him far in life.

Beyond his academic and mental growth, he also has a heartwarming capacity for care. He’s a great help in looking after his younger sister, and his support makes daily life a little easier for me. His insatiable curiosity and passion for learning about the world often keep him up late into the night—sometimes until 10:30 pm or even later! But I love his eagerness to explore and expand his understanding, even if it sometimes means sacrificing a bit of sleep.

About My Daughter:

My daughter, on the other hand, is lively and full of energy. She has a picky palate and isn’t always easy to manage, but her playful spirit brings so much light to our home. She moves from one room to another with boundless energy, never resting for long. Diaper changes can be quite challenging, especially when she poops, as she refuses to lie down. Instead, I often find myself changing her diaper while she’s standing, which can be messy and tricky. Yet despite these small difficulties, she has a softer side that brings me joy. I often catch her quietly flipping through books from her little bookshelf. Seeing her sit and look through the pages gives me hope that she may be developing a love for reading.

Reflection:

As I reflect on these small, daily experiences with my children, I realize that life is a collection of countless little moments, each contributing to a larger, more meaningful story. There will always be aspects that don’t align perfectly with what we imagine or hope for, but observing and appreciating the present is powerful. When I take the time to notice these moments—whether they are challenges or triumphs—I’m reminded of how much I have to be grateful for.

I’ve learned that it all comes down to perspective. When I find myself feeling anxious, tired, or overwhelmed, I try to shift my focus to the vibrant parts of my life: the determination in my son’s eyes as he learns, the quiet curiosity of my daughter as she flips through a book, the warmth and support my family provides. In doing so, I feel my anxiety diminish, replaced by a renewed sense of energy.

This journey of raising children is filled with unexpected joys and trials, but by observing, writing, and reflecting, I can stay grounded in the positive aspects of life. I’ve come to believe that happiness and gratitude are choices we make, crafted by our willingness to see the good in every situation. By nurturing this mindset, I hope to build a home filled with love, gratitude, and resilience.