I am particular. There I’ve said it. Some may call it “fussy”, “bossy”, “controlling”, or “tyrannical”.
I prefer, “meticulous”, “specific”, “thorough”, “accurate”, “exceptional”, “distinct”. Period.
When it comes to planning things, events, parties, building projects, other projects, home-school curriculum, weddings, and trips, I like everything to be efficient and well-organized, and most probably, including an itinerary. In my mind, the best way to have the best time is to prepare a masterful agenda, and that way nothing is left to wonder about. Or worry about. Or forget about. To me… it’s the logical way to do things. My family refers to this as “doing it the FROG’S way”… a term of endearment that goes back to my childhood… something that I’ve shared with my daughters as a little girl story from the time they were born.
Not everyone appreciates my stringent guides. Some believe that having a schedule doesn’t allow freedom for fun. Some believe that having a schedule actually takes away the fun. I witnessed this with my own eyes as I happily and joyfully presented Caitlin with the itinerary for her wedding weekend. I was delighted and exhilarated knowing that everything was prepared, had a place, had a time… was organized… and systematized. As she started reading page one (of three), her smile slowly and steadily turned upside down. Her eyes became narrow slits. Her shoulders drooped. Her question, “When is the fun suppose to happen, Mom?”
I didn’t understand her dismay. Our brains function from completely different directions. Of course, I have taken multiple personality assessments, because they provide the order and understanding that I desire. And we are, for sure, opposites in that regard. But the love that I have for her surpasses my need to understand. And I told her she didn’t have to look at the agenda ever again. That she could go about having the time of her life, the entertainment that she seeks, the adventure that she needs, and behind the scenes, I would tend to my list, follow the schedule, and keep everything punctual.
Based on her reaction, I can guarantee that she was not at all impressed with my planning skills and I felt like I had let her down, stolen her joy and squashed her free-spirited nature, but Friday night before the wedding, she came home with a surprise for me… unplanned naturally… and delightfully spontaneous.
It was a beautifully hand-crafted, green glass frog… a loving reminder that I AM the frog… and despite our differences… my little tadpole loves me back…
Embrace the differences and live well.
Lisa
Loves Doves 