Over the past few days, I had some more visitors. My niece, nephew, and little sister came to spend the holiday with me. I've watched them several times in Arkansas and they've even stayed with me for a day when they lived here. This time, I had all 3 for three days with no help. There are a few things I realized during this experience.
1. Even if I'm married, I don't think I would want over 2 children. Obvious exception would be if my wife had triplets. Otherwise, I think 2 is plenty. They can play with each other and when we go out as a family, we could buddy up.
2. Now, I have even more respect for single parents. Parenting is rough when there are two parents, so I'm sure it's even tougher when it's just one. There are no breaks, no plays off, no time outs. Especially if you have more than one. If you get one settled, the others are going to need or want something. Even when they're asleep, you're checking on them.
3. My wife will have to be the disciplinarian. One would think with all the whoopings I got growing up, I would be a master with the belt, shoe, switch. I am not. I don't think I've ever given any of them a spanking. I'm a living testimony that whoopings work (along with adequate coaching). I just don't think I can do it. I prefer diplomacy.
4. I would never stifle a child's personality. Take my little sister for example. We were driving and I was trying to get the lid off some orange juice I wanted to drink. I took the lid off with my mouth and asked sis to hold the bag open so I could spit the lid into it. I spit the lid into the bag and asked her "did I get it". Her response: "yeah plus some germs". I guffawed. Some parents would have slapped fire out her for that, but I thought it was hilarious. I told her that wit is a gift that signifies you are smart and funny. I would always want my children to be themselves.
5. Parenting is hella rewarding. A simple thanks and a hug from a child could warm up the coldest heart. They may fuss and fight, but at the end of the day you know they love each other and they love you.
I had a blast with my babies. I hope that I gave them more memories that will last their whole lives. I miss them already, however, now it's time to start the adult part of my vacation. And then I hit my #dougie. Peace.
1 comment:
kids are a joy, but those jokers are hard work. glad you had fun with your babies!
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