Me: Thanksgiving's coming up! We're gonna have turkey and rolls and
Rachel: Macaroni and cheese. (giggle)
At this point, I didn't even bat an eye.
Me: That sounds delicious, Rach.
I then proceeded to ask my other kids what delicacies they were dreaming of. After all, I am running out of money to put toward their therapy accounts.
----
A few years ago, my brother Robby and his wife told me about this book. I can't remember what it's called, but it gave Robby the "ugly cries" as he called it. It was about how we pay attention to all the firsts our kids do, but we never know when they're doing something for the last time.
I didn't read the book--I had no desire for the ugly cries--but that thought has stayed lodged into my brain. It's has become the thought that colors my parenting.
I mean, why not let the kids decorate the fridge however and whenever they want? Why not carry the almost six-year-old up the stairs from time to time even though she is capable of walking? Why not have cake for breakfast (on your birthday)?
This decision to try to savor the things my children do has resulted in me being called an "unconventional" parent. And you know what, I've never had a compliment I've appreciated more!
Viva la doing things my way~ (or perhaps better said, the kids' way)!
