Recess Repurposed

Brandi
May 16, 2019
3 min read

Updated: Nov 29, 2021

Growing up, we are encouraged to explore and play. As we age and "adult" we get more thoughtful about how we are being perceived. Those who know me, are aware seriousness isn't turned on all the time. Some love it and some hate it. I embrace it.

Over the course of years that spark had dimmed. Well folks, it's coming back! Look out!

Life can become heavy.

Remember being young and throwing your backpack to the side of the court/field/swings/playground/bedroom to run and join in the fun?

One of my favorite sounds is that of a basketball being dribbled on concrete or wood floor. Truly. I'd be in our childhood home and hear that sound and think, "What time is it? What do I have to do chore wise? How fast can I get my basketball shoes on and get down there? Let's go!". It was a rush of excitement and known pleasure to come.

Let's do just that right now as adults.

Drop those bags of burden and stress. I encourage you to tap into your Toys R Us kid. Even they are making a comeback and so can we!

Having a 2-year-old has forced me to slow down and pause my to do list and just sit and play. Her very direct approach to, "Come on!" with her little finger doing the adorable gesture for me to follow her. Other times it's, "Sit down HERE!" and a point to the floor near her and the toys we are to imagine with. Each time I must remind her, "Play with me, please.". Inside I am chuckling at her "demandments" <---a word from Babe: Pig in the City. Proud that she doesn't allow me to get off the hook from building memories.

There is a wonderful book I just completed by Stuart Brown, M.D. with Christopher Vaughan called "Play" This book has a goldmine of truths about - as humans play is so important. Please I encourage you read or listen to it. Worth each moment and is eye opening to how we are as humans today vs. when we were youngsters. It expresses the need for play and how it impacts who we become as adults on a very deep and at time limited scary level.

Another book I wrapped up listening too was "The Gifts of Imperfect Parenting" by Brene Brown; PhD. & LMSW who pointed me to the book "Play". Her words of wisdom spoke right to my heart and how to navigate the hardest but most rewarding job I've ever encountered (parenting). It's not for the meek but she gives you tools and knowledge to become more successful.

Let that kid out to play! You won't regret it.

Over the past few weeks many folks have called me with stress and tears in need of some fun. A shop owner feeling the pressure of change. A dear friend making a big move. A niece who is heavy hearted with today's demands. Annoyed/Frustrated co-workers.

My go to responses this time were: