Life is full of the mundane and routine. Many of our routines are healthy… but some are not. Unfortunately, at my house my very spirited 5 ½ year old has gotten into the frustrating routine of battling me at every meal. The usual question: “What are we having for dinner?” The predictable response to every meal choice put on the table: “That’s disgusting! I don’t want to eat that!”

I used to get really frustrated, and even angry about World War 3 breaking out at dinner time, which delighted my little adversary. He loves a good fight with mom! I’ve been trying a new tactic—showing no emotion and reminding my son that if he doesn’t want to eat what I’ve cooked, that’s his choice, but he’ll go to bed hungry. This has been very helpful in diffusing the conflict, but has not taken away my frustration. Continue reading →

I took all three of my kids to the doctor this past week, and on the way there, I couldn’t help but think of one of our past doctor office experiences…

It was summer time, and I had to take my two-year old son in for his well-child check at the clinic.  I was pregnant with my third child at the time, and was moving slower than I would have liked.  My oldest son was along for the ride and “a ride” is what doctor’s appointments tended to be for us.  I don’t know why, but as soon as we enter the doctor’s office, a switch seems to go off in my little boys’ brains: “conquer and destroy!”  They turn into little monsters (cute and lovable, but monsters nonetheless).  This visit was no exception. Continue reading →

It was a preschool morning at our house, which meant I had to get all three kids up, clothed, fed, make a sack lunch, and get us out the door and to preschool by 9:00 in the morning. This is no feeble task when you are wrestling a five, 2 ½ year old, and a 4 month baby out the door. I’ve learned we have to start putting on shoes, hats, jackets, etc., about half an hour before we actually have to be anywhere or we will never make it on time. And often, we still don’t! Continue reading →