Last night Patrick and I made a list of things we needed to do today. It was a list full of talking to insurance, maintaining bank accounts, making appointments, and running other duty-filled errands. While we started writing out our list, Kai got his own piece of paper and carefully began “listing” all of the things he wanted to do this summer: his “summer plan.”

He carefully listed items out loud before meticulously adding each “idea” to his “plan.” Unlike our list of “have-to’s,” his list was thoughtfully simple and spoke of a three-year-old’s desire for the sweetness of life. He started with seeing dinosaurs at the MN Zoo (an activity he enjoyed a few weeks ago and is anxious to repeat again). Then after some quiet consideration, he excitedly added, “Pancakes at the pancake restaurant!”He carefully set to work adding pancakes to his list while chattering away; describing just how good they would be. I smiled while I listened; smiled at his wildest dreams being fulfilled with a trip to Perkins. If only we could all find so much joy in such simple things!

His list continued for a while, and then he stood up; as though hit with his best inspiration yet, and declared the single word: “Snuggling!”  He even ran over for a quick snuggle before adding it to his list. It was a quality list. And when he got ready for bed, both of our lists were set aside for the adventuring of the following day.

Today we were very productive. Patrick and I managed to cross many items off of our necessary/house-keeping list. And then this evening, Kai reminded us of his list. So we decided to leave the house mid-chores, grabbed a couple of friends, and went out to “the pancake restaurant for pancakes.” The delight was visible on Kai’s face when they brought him his plate, and he ate two or three times what he normally eats at mealtime. We all enjoyed our meals; seasoned with the joy on the small one’s face. 💕

Today we were productive. Today we took time to enjoy the simple things; like pancakes with sprinkles.

Tomorrow we’ll continue through life’s lists: through the “have-to’s” and the fun stuff too. And I encourage you to do the same. Be productive. Cross things off your list. And remember to enjoy the pancakes and snuggles along the way 💕