It was 40 days ago that our family celebrated New Year’s Eve in a hotel room on the side of Interstate 35. In our resolution to “eat less junk food,” we let the kids binge on Pillsbury Toaster Strudels, by telling them it was their EXTRA SPECIAL DESSERT.
Catie’s Resolution was to “stay focused.” 40 days later? Eh. Fast Facts Subtraction are her nemesis. She is, however, doing wonderful at making friends. And she has an excellent understanding of her teacher’s three teen-aged kids–including their work schedules and favorite foods. And she has created a system for teaching Elisabeth how to read that would make Master Teachers weep with jealousy.
Sam’s Resolution was to “not whine so much.” 40 days later? Eh. His stumbling block is that he personifies unbridled emotion. Good or bad, Sam feels life DEEP. And the life of a four-year-old is not always Fruit Snacks and episodes of Cailou (thank goodness). This often makes Sam whine. A lot. But when he’s happy? A sight to behold.
Elisabeth’s Resolution was “no temper tantrums.” 40 days later? Eh. This morning we had a shirt “discussion” that made me want to buy the Future Mom of Teen Elisabeth (me) a glass of wine. Elisabeth’s nemesis is her mandatory uniform. There is only one combination she deems “cute at all.” This is a white blouse and plaid skirt. Because she is four, and goes to school every weekday, it’s impossible to keep the white shirt white. Which makes her mama deem it “unwearable.” Which makes Elisabeth scream. She HAS reduced her total screaming time down to less than an hour.
Nate’s Resolution (rather, our resolution for Nate) was “to walk.” 40 days later? Success!
I think that deserves Toaster Pastries all around.
