One of Those

Last week was one of those weeks.

And today was one of those days.

 Mr. Stomach Bug rudely invaded our house last week. He started with Eveley, got Caleb really good, beat up on the poor little twins, whacked dad, and then decided to circle back and begin again. 

He was ruthless.

 There was poo and puke everywhere. My hubby even coined a new verb, pook. I'll let you figure that one out.

I was begging for mercy and praying for the clock to tick by at rapid pace.

Finally, Monday came and the cloud lifted. Praise God! Hubby went back to work. All 4 kids were well and happy. And I steam cleaned every inch of my house. It was awesome.

Now the kids' energy has returned with a bit more attitude. My 4-year-old is -- how do I say it -- L I P P Y.

I am currently leading a study on Grace Based Parenting by Tim Kimmel. I highly recommend this study. Like no other parenting guide, this book really rocked my world...in a good way. It all comes back to grace, really. And that sounds wonderful in black and white. It makes sense, is supported by Scripture, and feels right in my soul. Yet, grace can be a bit tricky when push comes to shove.

And push came to shove.

This morning, we were taking Eveley to her first kindergarten tour at a local private school. Bob and I are simply perusing the options which, given our small town, are incredible. And incredibly overwhelming at times.

This school was top notch. Eveley would spend the day at their Junior Kindergarten while I was given the tour by the Admissions Director. I tried to prepare Eveley last night and make her feel at ease to spend the day at a new place. She loves her current preschool and was very sad to miss a day. So I treaded very lightly. We talked about manners, eye contact, playing well with others, listening, and obeying the teacher's instructions.

I guess I forgot to mention the part about her refraining from throwing a holy fit in the school's lobby.

I chalk most of it up to the fact that she ran down the stairs screaming with her brother this morning at 5:45. I had been awakened by little brother at 4:45 and was taking advantage of a little quiet time in the family room. But a mere hour later, I was joined by Eveley and her brother asking for some waffles. Seriously?

A strict morning wake policy is heretofore enacted...and has been communicated to the hubby along with demands for his assistance in the enforcement. I have purchased a children's clock that will glow at a specified time. The children are not allowed to leave their room until they see the glowing green clock. This better work.

Anyway, the visit went well. The school was very impressive, and Eveley enjoyed her time...well, until the teacher told them it was rest time. Eveley told her teacher that she did not like to take rests and wanted to leave. When they brought her to me in the lobby, I smiled and tried to calmly inquire about her day. The Admissions Director was right beside us.

Eveley said, "I'm going to the playground and went to walk out the door." I grabbed took her hand, said she couldn't run into the parking lot, and asked about her class. She then pulled a Veruca

and began to whine loudly. The admissions director extended her hand and said, "It was very nice to meet you, Eveley." Eveley looked at her and gave her five.

I said thanks and gently pulled Eveley to our car. All the while, she is yelling, "I'll be good if you give me a treat." WHAT??? Toddlers and Tiaras anyone?

So, my grace-based response was to bring her home, feed her lunch, and put her to bed. We can all be a little fussy when we're tired.

And as I am praying for these days to pass quickly, I am reminded how quickly they indeed pass. Too quickly. In spite of the craziness, hassle and headaches, I don't want to miss a thing. (cue Aerosmith).

Here's a little blast from the past, looking at February from the past 4 years.

February 2008

 

February 2009

February 2010

look at that party in the back

February 2011