Staying fully in the moment is a constant practice for me, but the most helpful thing by far has been to stop and look Owen in the eye whenever he talks to me.

It sounds like such a simple thing, but the effects have been enormous.  It shifts my perspective to gratitude every time, and allows us to connect amidst the chaos. 

 It may seem like a small thing, but by making a conscious effort to stop what I’m doing, look him in the eyes and answer his question or listen to his observations we are able to connect in a much more satisfying way.

When I take the time to stop, look him in the eye and tell him I just need a few minutes to finish something he is more patient, knowing that he has been heard.

When I stop to look him in the eye and connect in the midst of a tantrum, I’m able to react from a more empathetic place which makes us both a lot happier. 

 Most importantly, this simple act never fails to bring me back into the present and embrace how lucky I am to be able to spend my days with this amazing little boy who calls me Mama.