I've been reflecting on some things lately. Most of my reflecting has come around to me realizing how quickly time passes and how I feel I need to hold on for dear life to every day. And that has me noticing how often, in my attempts to control my life, I say no to my children. "No, you can't wear that to the store." "No, we don't have time for one more book." "No, we can't make a fort out of your mattresses."
I get that sometimes "no's" are important, and that children need boundaries. But I've decided to say yes whenever I can, whenever it's just about time, or appearances, or a little extra work, or a few coins. Maybe I can just let go and enjoy a little more.
So when the girls asked if we could please please please take pictures in the photo booth at the children's museum, to which I'd said no a dozen times, I said "Yes." It cost me a measly two bucks.
And you bet I'm glad.
13 comments:
Check out those sexy lips! We're counting down the days until we get to see you all!
I love these pictures! Isn't yes such a freeing word? Good for you...I ALWAYS want to do those booths...I just might tell myself yes next time thanks to you and your little lovelies :).
I love how Malan saw you pursing your lips and copied you in the next frame. It reminds me of Mom. She always got us treats whenever we went to town with her and I dont' remember any fights in the stores--why when we were about to get a treat?
Very cute, definitely worth the $2! I totally know what you mean, and you are a great example, we all need to let go just a little and let the kids enjoy!
So fun. Great pics. I'm trying to work on that, too!
i need this advice today.
and what cute pictures too.
Ok - have you let Malan wear the Pippy Longstocking witch hat thingy to the store yet????
that is funny because I was just thinking today that this is what I hear myself saying all day - "no no luke.... NO LUKE!!...stop, no no... no No NO!!!!" I get so tired of it. I love your pictures. I actually have noticed you have been good at saying yes since you became a mom. I remember being at your house in huntsville and malan asking you to go out and pull her on the sled. sounded exhausting and wet but you obliged her and I thought - WOW! Anyway, good work. Fun pics.
Cute, cute! That sounds like a fun place.
Anderson wanted us to build a bridge across the creek so he could drop leaves in. We said no--there is already a bridge across the creek. In fact, there are several. He begged us every which way. We talked about safety, lack of materials, and just plain tired. When you come, will you build him a bridge across the creek?
LOVE IT. "NO" is definitely over-used as a parent. The times I say, "YES" always pays off. The memories gained from "YES" experiences are well worth the sacrifice. Your girls are GORGEOUS Kate! I absolutely love all the pics you have posted about them. They are just a ray of sunshine.
what a fun mom you are!:)
Way to go, Auntie! My preschool is all about letting the kids make choices and experiment, so I think I sometimes let the yes thing go too far. You want to put paint all over your arms? Sure! We'll see how it goes when I have kids of my own with me all the time.
you are such a good mom miss kate!
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