I spend my days correcting name calling ie “stupid head”. I
am the enforcement of manners. I am the controller of apologies given with a
hug versus eye-rolls. I am the referee of physical arguments from toy throwing
to bicycle hit and runs. I am the sharing police of equal time to play with a
toy we have an identical one, but “it is not the same”. I am the maid picking
up only to repeat the same pick up within minutes. I am the hygiene committee
sanitizing the hands that secretly washed dirty “unders” in the toilet. I am
the make me a snack, get me a drink, the dogs ate my snack and find my drink in
ten minutes time person.
I am the voice raising, counting to three, time setting
timeout person. I am the give me a moment by locking the bathroom door to breathe person.
I am the let us stay home as it is too much work to go out person. I am the
hold your ground make no compromise during a tantrum person. I am the fall on
the couch during your rest and take a nap person. I am the count down to bedtime to
prepare to repeat the above the very next day person. I am the “I wonder how we
will get through tomorrow?” person.
You wrap your arms around my neck and I ask, “What was your
favorite part of your day?” Kaden, you always answer the same. It is music to
my heart as I hear your predictable answer with a beaming, “Everything!”
Ashton, you pinpoint your choice and give great detail. I get lost as I listen
to your perspective of the same day.
It comes to me.
I remember you are three
and four years old—17 months a part in age. You’re simply being who you are
supposed to be at these ages.
You fall into my arms. I become conscious that my
correcting, policing, enforcing, sanitizing, reminding and controlling is to
raise good people. To raise good people is tiring. Gauging how tired I am you
two boys will grow to become great people! Truth is told, I would repeat each
day as it ensures one more day spent with you both. It may sound as though I
take parenthood for granted, but I assure you it is one I am forever grateful
to experience all the minutes.
This tough gig is a gift and you better believe I know it.
