How We Remember...

Doing Things for Themselves

"Remember you are not managing an inconvenience, you are raising a human being." --Kittie Franz

For a few years now, the kids have had a drawer in the kitchen with kids plates and cups. They place their own settings at the table before dinner and this was a really good way that they could acomplish this task on their own. 

And now, with Isabel helping make her own lunch, we've reorganized this drawer to include bowls, a small colander, measuring cups, lunch totes, bento boxes and lunch paraphernalia as well.

The kids really love having a space for just their things, in a place they can reach it. And they are really proud when they help out and sometimes set the whole table with kids plates and cups! Plus, now their little friends know where they can get cups to serve themselves water at our water jug with a spigot on the counter.

Giving them little ways to help themselves help them become responsible for themselves little by little.

Because, as parents, we're teaching them to become independent individuals. Right? We want them to be self sufficient and know how to do great things. This is a little step along the road.

Do your kids have a way that they serve themselves in your home? 

weekending: Camping Calm

I am sitting in the woods and it is hot! Roaring fire is before me and our tent is behind-- I'm listening to our little people talk to each other in hushed tones, they think we can't hear them whisper! My feet are dirty and I'm sweating but my heart is calm.

For me the smell of campfire, pine trees and the sound of a singing whippoorwill send me straight to my happy place. Cicadas singing in the trees and drops of rain on tent nylon in the cool night air are the sweetest lullabies.

Do you have a place where no matter what goes on year heart calms instantly?

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Blogging by hand: I'm trying something new, I'm writing my new blog posts in my journal first and then posting them here at a bit later time. I feel like I can collect my thoughts better. You should try it!

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Joining Amanda.

Early Morning

I can't think of a place I'd rather be, before that house starts moving-- with a cup of coffee and a few thoughts.  

Plus, the way the light plays on the table I know Autumn is coming.