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My partner and I were out running errands when I stopped to admire a display of ceramic Santa Planters each with a baby pine tree (it was the trees that caught my attention—I’m a sucker for anything “baby”).

On cue he said “You should get one.”

As always I shot back, “Naw, that’s okay.”

We loaded the car and he walked off to return the cart. Just as I began to wonder where he’d run off to the door opened and he tossed me a bag—yep, the Santa Planter. Later that night he pointed out to me that every time my inner child reaches for something I slap her hands.

Has anyone ever handed you truth jerky—something you end up chewing on for a long time? For two days now I’ve been getting flashes of how I short change this little girl. I tell myself I’m giving her attention when we work on our “fun” writing projects or when we make gifts for others. After all, this is play—right? Not really. To my inner child this is like hiding vegetables in the Jell-O and calling it dessert.

Oh, my friend also said that if I keep refusing to give my inner child some play time at some point she will throw a tantrum and decide to go play whether I agree or not. I’m not sure what this would look like and I don’t think I want to find out.

As women we train ourselves to “get it done,” “do it perfect,” and “give unto others.” We repeatedly discuss how to fit “more” into 24 hours. Then the holiday season comes and in addition to our work/home/kids/care giving duties we add extra assignments, faster turn-arounds, holiday menus, shopping, and charitable causes. Does anyone else hear “Pop Goes the Weasel”? Something has to give…

This holiday season take a moment to give back...to yourself! Your inner child knows this is a festive time and she wants to play on her terms. So take a moment—right now is good—and ask that little girl what she would like to do for fun. Maybe she wants a cup of hot cocoa this morning. She might want to draw a picture. Heck, maybe the kid wants a Pillow Pet! Let her have it, she’s earned it!

For all the times she’s stayed up late working while others slept. For all the times she’s given up her piece of cake to make someone else happy. For all the times she’s quietly sucked it up when you broke yet another promise to her. Before the year ends set aside some special time with the one person who keeps your creative clock running—that spritely, joyful, playful spirit inside of you.

post & image by Robyn Chausse

What is your inner child asking for? Share it here…