Favorite Things February #23: Quiet

I know it may seem cliche that one of a mother of preschooler's favorite things is quiet. For me as much as I love the hustle and bustle of a full house, I also relish the times of quiet. I think it's because it's a sign that all is well in the house, at least at this point in my mothering career. I don't have teenagers who are silent and moody or a husband who doesn't communicate. So when things are quiet, I think peaceful. Usually, when it's quiet, those who should be sleeping are sleeping, those who are awake are quietly entertaining themselves. The dishwasher and washing machine have done their duty for the day so they are still. The t.v. and radio are off. The only thing I can hear (at least when I am not at the computer) is the rhythmic tick of the clock in the kitchen. It's a beautiful thing, for as long as it lasts.

My sister and her husband are still in town, so they were able to watch the kids today while I went to my MOPs meeting. So I didn't have to scramble to get everyone dressed and out of the door on time only to get them back unbundled and checked in for childcare. It was a nice morning. I saw a friend there who asked if that was going to be my favorite thing for the day. I think the nice thing was driving in the car and not listening to anything. Before kids I knew all the radio stations and listened to my presets whenever I was in the car. Now, when I don't have the kids with me, I usually drive without the radio and enjoy the quiet.

Right now I am enjoying quiet. It's a sunny day. Oh yes, it's still cold-the trees are decorated with beautiful icicles that look like crystals in the sun. I have the shades up in the living room, so I can sit on the couch and feel the warmth of the afternoon sun. I can imagine that it's 50 degrees warmer outside than it really is. I really love these moments when all the pressing things on my to do list are done and I can sit and rest and get energized.

I feel like quiet is also where I am spiritually. Not in a bad way by any means. God is very present, like that rhythmic ticking clock, reminding me of His constant and steadfast faithfulness. I am resting in His blessings. I am being still and knowing he is God. There is peace. I am content and enjoying the Son. It's during these times that I can pray for those whose lives aren't so quiet. Also, this isn't to say that it won't be chaotic for me in the future. The clouds will come. There will be times of noise, but in those times I can look back and see how He used this time of quiet to refresh, energize and strengthen me.

Hmm, shhh, I think I hear something. It's a nice warm couch in the sun calling my name.