Back in Another Life

I received an e-mail from a college friend I hadn't heard from in ten years. He had scanned a bunch of photographs from back in the day and sent them to me. And BAM! There I was, partying like it was 1999 because it was — well — about 1999. I had a huge smile plastered on my face (partly because I was plastered) but mostly because I was truly living in the moment.

I was immediately transported back to that time and place — 100% present, enjoying my experience to the fullest degree and focusing on the "now". My entire world was based on getting to do whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted and that has definitely changed since then. I am reminded of this practically every minute of every day. I understand those carefree years are only one phase in life. Do I miss some of that freedom? Of course I do. But what really struck me about those photos was my amazing ability to be fully present and absorb everything I was experiencing — every second of it.

I tend not to have that focus these days, and I want it back. I want to feel fully present with my husband and not think about when bills are due. I want to be completely focused on my daughter and not wonder how much organic milk we have left. I want to work on living in the now right now with the people who mean the most to me. Because really, what could be more important than that.

Too often I am so easily distracted by small and insignificant things — empty rooms with lights on, dirty dishes, crumbs on the floor...you get the idea! You would think all of these trivial events would add up to something big and substantial, considering how much attention they get and time they take. But the reality is, it adds up to nothing. It's completely meaningless when compared to everything that truly matters. Instead of counting the things I have left to do, I want to count the kisses, hugs and smiles I give.

So, as I strive to manifest that sentiment in my life each and every day, I look forward to taking another photograph that represents this phase of my life. It will be of family and reflect the love in our eyes in that moment, and nothing else.

Bio: Amy is co-founder of www.betterwaymoms.com and lives in Upper Manhattan with her husband and two-year-old daughter. She loves biking, music, swimming with the fish, reading on the subway and the sound of her daughter in giggle fits.

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