What Shows Up On Your Screen?

After a full 3 hours of geocaching, backroad adventure seeking, and trail walking, I was more than ready for rest Sunday night. Yet, to be honest, those 3 hours were a great "rest" from the jam-packed life I seem to lead these days. 

Once bedtime arrived, I asked my kiddo to lead prayers. She thanked God for the beautiful sunset we saw after our walk in the woods at Robertsville State Park. THAT made me feel good, like maybe I am doing something right.

Throughout this past weekend my daughter has told me how kids in her class say they feel sorry for her because of her apparent lack of electronics. Apparently her handheld DS & the iPad my mom allows her to use just aren't enough in today's world. 

For the record, I am ok with her not fitting in today's tech-crazed society. As a ten-year-old, I think she needs less screen time and more time with good books (that don't glow), her pets, nature, educational tv shows, family, travel, charitable work, art projects, etc. There is so much to fill a life with that an X-box can't even begin to hold.

All the studies I read state kids (and adults!) need more time in the woods, at a park, near nature, and time unplugged from the "glow" of a screen. 

Yes, my kiddo and I use technology to guide us on geocaching adventures and to document our escapades, but I would like to think we use it to enhance our lives; not escape them. When I notice we've strayed away from reality, I make an effort to unplug and get out. 

As we left the park Sunday night, my daughter joked that she bet some of her classmates didn't get to see the sunset because it wasn't on the screen in front of them. She says a camera or a windshield often has better views than screens do, but this is still the same kid who is jealous she has classmates who already have Facebook at age 10 and I am NOT letting that happen. 

I feel for her. I actually do. However, I would like to hope this is the right path for her. 

What are your thoughts on screen time and electronics for kids (and adults)? Am I just being old-fashioned, or is there something to the whole "unplug and get outside" movement?

Thanks for reading, and as always - I appreciate you stopping by! 

~ M of MK Designs 

Responsibility and Priority SHIFT!

As we age, responsibilities shift and priorities change.

My daughter's weekend art project for school! 

For example, it's October. Even up to a few years ago I was plotting out all my weekends around "Oktoberfest" - which I still love - it's just not a huge priority now.

October means playing in the leaves at my "day job."
We are learning how fast shutter speeds capture movement in images. 

Right now my October is full of things like helping my daughter with school work, and coming up with some fun fall activities for us. Apple picking, sunset watching, seeking the best Halloween costume, and her education are all important. 

Sunset watching with my girl!

October is also when I work at home football games to help offset the expenses of home ownership, my daughter's needs, etc.

HOCO Spirit Week - Jersey Day - at my "day job" :-)

Walking in New Haven the first weekend of October with my daughter. 

I also plan to fit in a very quick weekend visit with my buddy Travis in Dallas, TX...oh, and of course a few portrait sessions. I do love to photograph in October. The color here in Missouri is often stunning. 

Add all that up, and toss in my full time "day job" demands, Oktoberfest is taking a back burner. If it happens, great! If not, I won't be crushed. 

Hitting up Soulard Market with my kiddo! 

Speaking of priority and responsibility shifts, I've now obtained a third cat. I didn't want a third cat, trust me. However, a housesitting gig for a friend who moved to Texas turned into an adventure with Murphy kitty. 

Two is company, three is a crowd! I thought two was plenty...but...

Murphy is an interesting fellow who somehow landed on North Bend Road just outside Union. Apparently a lot of cats end up out that way. This guy, though, is super friendly and seems to like snuggles and a warm place inside. 

I tried (with no luck) to find this boy a home for nearly a month. I even talked to various vets, and the Humane Society. I finally let him adopt me.

I never had much company use my spare bedroom, so after a two-day vet visit...this became Murphy's room at our house. 

We are slowly opening doors and letting him explore. The other cats are the issue. Zoey is angry. Patches is all over him wanting his friendship, which makes Murphy angry. Emotions run high! I can also tell that Murphy is wondering why he can't go outside anymore. I am praying he gets over it and accepts a life as a spoiled inside feline. 

I didn't want three cats, but as I said before: responsibilities (and priorities) shift as we age. 

Side-note: I am almost 42. I like myself more than I have in my entire life. This version of Michelle is very content (minus the extra pounds I carry, but that's neither here nor there right now - because I am actually taking steps to make those extra pounds a little less). 

Have your priorities and responsibilities shifted as you've made your way through life? I am willing to bet so... and if not... well, that is something you may wanna look into! :-)

Thanks for reading, M of MK Designs