I love finding ways to bring more rhythm to our lives. The little ones and I are always more peaceful, calm and grounded when our days flow with a comforting rhythm...like breathing.
The way we flow through our days, weeks, months and years all have a rhythm, and each one is important for keeping us centered, connected and present. I watch my children and see how nourished they are by a strong sense of rhythm in their lives.
When I use the word 'rhythm' I am not talking about a rigid order where everything is always on a specific time schedule. Far from it. Rhythm (to me) is fluid and open, allowing for the spontaneity that keeps life interesting and flexibility to change course if the desire or need arises.
Our weekly rhythm these past few years has often highlighted chores, meals, activities and outings. I find that Mason really responds well to knowing what day it is, what he can expect that day to bring and what he might have to look forward to that day. Knowing that "Friday is french toast for breakfast and story time at the library" gives him a predictable rhythm to his week which provides a sense of comfort and security in his world.
I also love alliteration (especially with Mason right now), and so I try to use it for our weekly rhythm whenever possible...and lately our weekly rhythm highlight has been on breakfast and activity. The boy is very into letters and letter sounds right now, and seems to find a little more delight when our daily rhythm contains alliteration.
Lately Wednesday has been Wednesday waffles and watercolor Wednesday.
Mason and I love painting with watercolors, and wet-on-wet watercolor is our favorite. It is such a meditative, soothing way to just experience color, without the worry about creating a perfect form...just right for our little ones. The process is enjoyable, and it is easy to create something beautiful. It is also wonderful for learning about colors and color mixing, as the colors blend on the paper right in front of you.
Sometimes we paint something specific, like a story, or a season, but today we just painted. Mason wanted to paint a huge rainbow.
He also spinkled some salt on for a crystal effect.
Today I had hoped to paint with Mason while River was napping, but we had one of those days where her nap was cut short, so she joined us at the table for painting time as well.
This was her first time, and she seemed to enjoy it. I look at this photo and wonder if I might have two lefties... Eventually she got tired of the paper and started painting her tray, and then she experimented with painting her face. Her brother thought this was hilarious.
We often try out new weekly rhythm focuses. Some stick around and some fade away, but I think watercolor Wednesday will be with us for a while.
What are your favorite ways to bring rhythm to your week?