You have all heard it...that laugh that is so contagious, it brings an instant smile to your face. That is what I heard so much today and I cannot put into words how happy that makes me. My girls are finally feeling better!!! We were out and about today running errands. Caroline and Sofia were so funny during our car ride. Caroline is usually the first one to laugh and I have to admit she has the best laugh in the world. It truly comes from her toes and all through her little body. She was cracking up at a voice in one of her nursery rhyme songs. Honestly, it wasn't even that funny but just the sound of her laughing made Sofia and I laugh. Then before you know it we were all hysterically laughing because, well I really don't know why. It was so enjoyable though. Laughter really is the best medicine.
Tonight was a walk through art show at Marianna's school. Each child in the school chose one of his or her art projects to be displayed in the hallway. So, I have been asking Marianna what project she chose and she kept telling me a cup. We go tonight and the first round, we didn't see any cups. I'm thinking "oh boy, here we go." She is starting to get upset that we can't find her project. I ask her again what she submitted, and now she says, "I don't remember, I think a cup." So, round two of walking the halls....NOTHING....we convince her to ask tomorrow at school and then we can go see it after school. She is furious. I was starting to feel her anxiety and sadness. We are getting ready to leave, we turn the hall and YES!!!! there it is, the display of cups. Thank you God. She was so proud and she should be. It was really cool. Way to go Marianna!!!
So, I think I am going to try something new with my girls. It seems like at times, they are out of control and refuse to listen no matter what technique my husband and I try. It has become stressful and I don't like how our household feels when all this is happening. I read in a parenting article that one father held up his hand and sat down on the floor. He waited a few seconds and the kids stared at him and were quiet enough that he was able to calmly tell them what needed to be said. I am going to try this.
I have no idea if I will succeed, or if I will be sitting there with three girls running around my head. I hope not. Our family needs to find a way to be calm when giving instructions etc. I know we aren't the only family dealing with this. What do ya'll do to get your child's attention? What discipline techniques are working or not working in your home? I'm tired of raising my voice or hearing my husband raise his voice. It obviously is not working, if we have to raise our voice. Come on parents, share your thoughts. I am always open to hearing new suggestions. It takes a village right?
Have a good night. I am off to read. Our television is not connected because of the painters, and wow is it quiet. I like it. Maybe I will get some nice R & R. See ya'll tomorrow.
Laughter is an instant vacation. ~ Milton Berle
