Logic in the Love

Next week I will be starting a short class called "Love and Logic". Here is what I am hoping to get out of it. 1. A way to help the kids make good choices without us 2. A way to stop the constant arguing 3. I would like to try and stop the bad attitude funk that the kids sometimes get into 4. Consequences for the kids misbehavior that are consistent and appropriate for the behavior.

Maybe I am expecting a lot. I think my kids are smart, silly and lovely. But there are times when they dig their heels in and wont listen to me. I need to regain some control and help steer them to good choices.

I have read some of the book this series is based on. One example in letting them make choices is not to battle. Tell them it's cold outside and it would be a good choice to get a coat and hat on. But then don't chase them around or nag about the coat. When they don't put it on and are cold they will learn to listen to you next time. But how would this play out with a shower? Do you let your kids go stinky??? Even when they have sensitive skin??

I am hoping this will help me make better choices with them. Less Yelling. More hugging. I hope it helps me be a better parent.

Growing Up

This weekend we had a great time in the sand and sun with family. The kids played in the water all day Saturday and even though it was not sunny they were in all day Sunday too. It was so much fun to sit and share some music with Kevin and watch them have a blast. It was also fun to join them in the water and be silly. On Sunday I was getting up to help T come down from the loft when he said "I'm ok, I don't need you Mommy" and I felt my heart break a little.

The girls started school on Tuesday. They came home so excited after their first day. I love that. It's always a good feeling when it goes well. I have watched some of my friends deal with sad kids in the morning and I always feel for them. While telling me about her first day, Hannah told me about all the kids in her class. She mentioned one boy who was new last year and who she has a "crush on". I said "you do huh?" and she said "yep". WOW.

My kids are growing up too fast. I really miss the times when they were little and wanted to cuddle and read together. Yet, watching them now (even though it's a little sad) is pretty exciting too. They are learning so much. They are making new discoveries. I am so proud.

Thank you Thanksgiving

At this time of year people start to take stock. To think about all the things in their lives that make them lucky. I love this. But all year I like to think about what makes me thankful. The everyday things that bring a smile to my face and make me say a quick prayer of thanksgiving. Here are a few of those things:

1. Kevin: He is the most amazing husband, father and friend. I couldn't have been luckier than I was in meeting and marrying this wonderfully funny man. He makes me smile and makes me crazy everyday.

2. Hannah: She is super smart, artistic and crazy. She has the most beautiful lashes and cute freckles. She challenges me and makes me fell more pasion. Life would surely never be the same without her chocolate crazies.

3. Allison: Allie is smart, silly and thoughtful. She has the most lovely curls and I adore her nose spot. She makes me laugh and surprises me all the time with what she is thinking. She tries things. She is also a monkey, wiggly, silly funny girl.

4. Thomas: my T...my baby. Thomas is always cracking us up with his questions and mannerisms. He is a total boy and a wonderful change from the girls. I love his wink and his hand talking. I love that he is so into music (rock and roll!). I love his ideas and his absolutes.

5. Our home. Our home is messy and warm. Our home is wonderful and silly. Our home is busy and loud. There are toys everywhere. Our home is a work in progress. Our home isn't just a house.

6. My family and friends: For making me laugh and supporting and loving us no matter what crazy venture we encounter.

For these I am truly thankful. I feel so lucky everyday to be living this crazy wonderful life.

Matrix Anniversary

At the end of the first Matrix movie there is someone typing on a computer. The date they type is September 18, 1999. This is also the day I married my best friend and we pledged to share our lives together. What a wonderful time it has been. I can't wait to see what comes next!! I am truly excited about our future together.