As I wrapped up yesterday’s post, Graham was waking up from a short nap. I was frustrated because I knew he wasn’t feeling well. He needed that sleep. But you can’t make a kid sleep… the story of parenthood. I mentioned yesterday that I had a gingerbread house decorating contest with my church girls last night. I had the gingerbread cake all baked and ready to go. The pre-built kits were at church waiting for creativity and inspiration.
As the afternoon went on I realized that Graham was on the fence when it came to being healthy enough to go to church. This is the tension of being in a pastor’s family. Jeremy and I teach on Wednesday nights. We have commits, but we also have kids. It can be a hard call – do I stay home with the boys so they can rest or do I push them and hope it will be fine? The final decision was Graham sounded too hoarse, Owen has a random cough and I’m battling a sore throat – the sickies would stay home.
Maybe you’ve heard of FOMO – the Fear Of Missing Out. I wrestle with that. I didn’t want to miss the gingerbread night especially when I had hyped it up with my girls as one of the best nights of the year. I didn’t want to leave my husband short a teacher. Luckily, I co-teach with my mom and she was able to cover for me. I am thankful and blessed for her back-up support on nights like this.
I follow an account on Instagram that has that changed FOMO to JOMO – the joy of missing out. It’s funny and something I can relate to. It’s in reference to being a homebody most of the time. Last night, I got my boys into jammies, set up their pillows and blankets on the couch and started a movie with an early bedtime as the ultimate goal. Graham developed a fever. At one point I was laying the couch with Graham’s head snuggled into my chest, I could feel his fever and I knew I made the right choice. While I was sad that my littles were sick, I was joyful that I could be home with them. I was joyful that I got to snuggle and bring comfort. So last night I had some FOMO, but it ended up being JOMO by the end of the night. I was right where I belonged.
(Side note: I’m positive my husband is cringing as he reads this – just mention ho cho or fro yo in his presence and you’ll see why.)
I wonder how often FOMO could turn to JOMO? It’s all a matter of perspective. Instead of worrying about keeping up or missing out or being on the outside, what joy could we find in our situations? What peace could we find if we are looking for joy? What contentment would follow?
It’s no secret that I struggle with perfectionism. While I am striving for perfection, I am often missing out on the good and lovely in the midst of the messy or challenging. I don’t want to miss out when it comes to the right things. I also don’t want fear to be my driving force. Last night was a reminder to find the joy in all things. Even when plans change. Even when the family is sick. Even in the midst of the mundane, the stressful, or the difficult. There is joy to be found if we look for it.
My view this morning – Graham resting while watching Toy Story while I work on MOPS Christmas party prep for Monday.
My reminder to choose joy this Christmas!
Amy Scott's Thoughts 
Love that! I spent my first two years in NYC feeling that I had to be outside drinking in the city during every waking moment. I still do that most of the time, but I am slowly learning to enjoy quiet nights in with a book and a cup of coffee.
Nights in with a book are my favorite but that often feels like a luxury when there is so much else to do. However, I find that if I don’t prioritize down time then my body will prioritize it for me. Wishing you the best in NYC!