At my house, we have a tradition that we call Fun Friday. It’s one of those cheesy family things that before kids I never would have thought I would do, but T came home from a business trip one time with a movie and a bucket of never-seen-in-our-house goodies, and the tradition was born. It seemed like a good and simple idea. We make a point to spend Friday afternoon/evenings together (as long as we’re all in the same city) and do something a little above and beyond our regular routine.
The problem arises when it’s been a crazy busy week, as is our norm, and all, especially the grown-ups, are tired. Coming up with something “special” to do seems almost like a burden. I wish I were one of those parents who has a backup list of a million great activities for the family at all times, but I am not. Coming up with 52 enticing activities that are fun for all can be daunting.
So, when I showed up at my very good friend’s house last Friday evening, and she was clearly a bit frazzled, and the house was a *tiny* bit messy, and hubby was not yet home but soon arrived in a less than cheerful mood, I could completely relate. We’re supposed to be happy, people! It’s the weekend! Hooray! Unfortunately, it’s easy to forget. Mom (heretofore referred to as L) and I were not sure how this would go. We showed up to where we planned to shoot, and there were a million people. The troops were getting hungry. One had to pee.
We went back and forth whether we should proceed, or risk losing the light and eat. In the meantime, big brother made it to the restroom and the kids started to play. L was still very skeptical that we’d be able to salvage the evening. But you know when I knew we’d be okay? When baby sister, who whenever I’ve been around her is the quietest thing, started her toddle, brother started chasing, which led to her chuckling. I heard Dad start laughing behind me. It wasn’t that everyone immediately started having a fantastic time, but it was then I think that they all relaxed a bit, consciously or not. We were able to grab a few shots that I think L will be surprised by. It was a reminder to me that most of the time enjoying our families is not about being in the most spectacular places, having the most fun of our lives, and leaving every trouble behind. Sometimes, it is simply letting our guards down, making each other crack a smile even when we are determined not to, and being each other’s soft place to land.
Thanks for the evening, W family. I couldn’t think of a better family to spend my Fun Friday with when I have to be away from my own crew.
