One thought from me:

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The late psychologist Dr Christopher Peterson was famous for his short summary of the study of psychology. He claimed you could explain the scientific research about human flourishing in just three words. His words were:

'Other people matter.'

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I think, with a little adjustment, a similar short summary can explain a child's early development,

'Our first relationships matter.'

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And, when you look at what we know more broadly about parenting even older children, it looks very similar again, the summary could be:

'Our connection to our children matters.'

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Peterson’s simple phrase reminds us what is really important in life. The good life isn’t a life free from hardship or suffering. (Which is good because there isn't much chance any one of us will ever have that kind of life here anyway) Instead our wellbeing comes through our connection to others and to God. Our relationships are what carry us through good times and bad.

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A quote from someone else:

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The good life is built on good relationships.

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- Robert Waldinger, from his 2010 Ted Talk What Makes a Good Life​

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And a few things I think you will love:

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- Of course good relationships don't mean perfect relationships. Like most important things, relationships take work. This article is a good overview of what works in relationships, and the advice—which is mostly taken from the work of John Gottman—is helpful to all our relationships, with our spouses, our children, our siblings and our friends.
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- Speaking of John Gottman, we love his principle of saying five positive things for every negative one and it's something that we intentionally practice doing as a family.

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- We are six weeks into our trip around Australia and each day away is such a reminder of how good sun, salt and blue skies are for relationships. We're incredibly grateful that we have this opportunity for an extended sabbath. But thankfully, even when life goes back to normal, I know there are always ways to make time for each other outside.

It can be as simple as spending ten minutes sitting by a window with our new baby and listening to the rain together, or walking the block with a friend, or leaving the to-do list behind, and heading out for an afternoon swim.
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Simple moments that add up and make life together brighter.
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Thanks for reading, and, as always, I'm grateful you're here.
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Hannah Alexander x

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Let's seek a deeper connection and a brighter life.

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Each week, I share A thought from me, a quote from someone else and some things I hope you will love. I'd love to hear back from you, so hit reply with any questions or thoughts. I read every email reply I get, I just can't promise I'll write back every time.

I have three kids aged between 3 and 10, so it's possible I'll be at the beach with them, or if not, probably folding socks. I am, however, so very grateful for the words you do send through and for you being here.

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