Easter '09

Unsupervised

The other day I came downstairs after a few minutes of leaving these two "unsupervised" and I found this. They had pulled the entire bottom part of the dishwater out onto the floor and were having a great time. As you can see, Avery was very concerned about getting it put back together again and Presley was very proud of herself. She even attempted to explain things when I asked her what they were doing.

A realization

As I was getting everyone out of the car to go into the grocery store, a woman walked past me and made a comment about how I must have my hands full with "three kids". I just smiled, like I try to do every time someone notices us and says something. Yes, most of the time I do have my hands full, and I often wonder how my mother did anything with five kids, or better yet, how anyone does anything with more than three. But I've had a few opportunities lately where I've "seen the light" as to how it's done.

On our way out of the library the other day I decided not to fight with putting my girls back in the stroller. (I usually let them out toward the end of our visit to ease the screaming.) I told Caleb to take Presley's hand and I took Avery's and we all walked up to the front together. I remember looking over my shoulder at the sight of the two of them following me - wow, imagine that! I have also noticed lately that at least two of them and sometimes all three will find something creative and fun to do together at home. Sometimes it turns destructive or someone gets hurt, but for the most part it's actual "playing together" time that I don't even have to supervise. So I can get a quick chore done, check my email, finish the dishes, etc. And just last night, dad was absent for bedtime, so I suggested Caleb sit on the chair and "read" to the girls while I finish some last minute things. They all sat there for a good 5 minutes, very content and quiet!

My realization consists of the fact that older siblings can assist and even substitute for the parent. I think I've always known this in the back of my head, but until it's you having the experience, it doesn't really matter what you think you know. And the really good news is that Caleb's not even 4 1/2 years old - look how much time he has to get better at it! I recognize I am fortunate to have a 4 year old son who is cooperative and sweet most of the time and two girls who like to be manageable half of the time, so that helps.

My mom always says we were good kids growing up. I guess that's why she had five!