If you can't say something nice

Well, today was rough. And I don't usually like to write on rough days. You know, "If you can't say something nice, then don't say anything at all."

I'm just wondering where it all went wrong. Sure, it was raining when I woke up. And a kid climbed in my bed and peed on me. And the 2-year old woke up TOO EARLY and woke one of his brothers up. The brother did not go back to sleep, and remained grumpy all day.

I mean ALL DAY.

Because of the morning incidents, I did not get my quiet time. I was lucky to grab a quick shower after breakfast. When school time rolled around, no one was ready. Apparently the routine we've had for years isn't well enough established.

Hmph.

They conveniently forgot their morning chores and dragged their feet when they "remembered."

Now, at this point, I usually (yes, we've had these days before) haul them all outside with their books, and admire the blue sky, beautiful sunshine, and we thank God for such a delightful day. THEN we start our work. But, as I mentioned, it was raining today. Psha.

Sooo, I attempted a cheer-up session, to no avail. Then I resorted to rewards (bribery, whatever...) "Let's take care of this work, then on to more fun stuff, and then maybe we'll bake cookies this afternoon."

No good.

There was fighting, grumbling, kicking. (!!) Every time the boys started to play together, they began fighting. They fought just working next to each other. So they were separated, desks moved across the room. And then they cried about it. Maybe I should have just let them beat each other up?

Thank goodness for yogurt pops, lapbooks, and a husband who comes home happy. Fred worked a long, hard day... he left here at 5:30 am and returned at 4:30pm. But he hugged me when he got home, listened to me (without telling me I was over-reacting.) He expressed confidence in me. And he dealt with the continuing attitude problems throughout the evening. Yep, he even put the grumbling fighting little boys to bed. We usually trade off nights, and tonight was mine for the boys, but Fred took over anyway. I'm actually a bit surprised that he was SO helpful tonight, seeing as how I was rather grumbly myself yesterday evening. Ah, grace.

Then, with all four little people in bed, my husband told me to "sit down."
What a concept. Sit and do nothing.
Nothing.
So I sat and watched TV with him. I never do that.
And it felt good to be still and quiet. Then we turned off the TV and continued to just sit.
Ah.
Quiet.
Still.
Calm. That is what I needed. Tomorrow WILL be better. :-)

Now for a laugh...

Q: How does a homeschooler change a light bulb?
A: First, mom checks three books on electricity out of the library, then the kids make models of light bulbs, read a biography of Thomas Edison and do a skit based on his life. Next, everyone studies the history of lighting methods, wrapping up with dipping their own candles. Next, everyone takes a trip to the store where they compare types of light bulbs as well as prices and figure out how much change they'll get if they buy two bulbs for $1.99 and pay with a five dollar bill. On the way home, a discussion develops over the history of money and also Abraham Lincoln, as his picture is on the five dollar bill. Finally, after building a homemade ladder out of branches dragged from the woods, the light bulb is installed. And there is light. ~Author Unknown

Lord, give me wisdom, patience, love, kindness in dealing with my children. Help me teach them and, God, please help them retain it! Give us a day of peace and joy, above all else. Adjust little attitudes, including mine. I know I easily get discouraged, God. Please lift me up and help me carry on with more strength! Amen.