I Don't. . .

Written Fall 2012

We often make "to-do" lists, but have you ever heard of making a "don't" list?  In light of the quote above, I have been thinking about slimming down my schedule so that I have time to sit on the couch and read a book to my kids (without feeling stressed about all the things I need to get done), have time to go on an evening walk with my husband, and can sit on the front lawn and enjoy a perfect fall day with my kids.  So I started thinking about what things I am not going to do this school year:

1.  I am not going to have a regular volunteer day in their classrooms.

I know it sounds terrible to say that.  I can feel the guilt, I am a bad mother.  In reality, I walk my kids to school every morning.  I walk and pick them up every afternoon.  I see the Principal, teachers, and aids several times a week.  I will be there for programs, parties, and other events.  I help my kids with their homework every night.  I encourage and teach at home, but this year  I feel that it is important for me to maintain a house of order so that  I am ready to focus on them when they come home from school.  I also would like to have time with the two youngest at home so that I can help them.  For many years  I have volunteered in their classrooms regularly.  I decided this year that I need to be home.

2.  I don't send my kids to a paid preschool.

I know that my situation is far different than many other people.  If my situation or child's personalities were different I would consider different options.  The truth is I love to teach!  The most rewarding thing I do in a day is teach my children. I enjoy being their preschool teacher. 

3.  I don't were the coolest clothes.  

I have come to grips with the fact that I am a mother.  Tonight I was running out the door for pack meeting as I was eating a peach.  The peach was so juicy that juice ran down the front of my shirt (the same shirt I wore while mowing the lawn this morning).  I wiped my shirt off with a wet rag.  Threw a cardigan and necklace on to distract from the large wet spot and enjoyed a lovely evening at Cub Scout Pack Meeting.  

4.  I don't buy "cool" food for my kids.

When it come to food, I am not that cool.  My kids lunches aren't nearly as cool as some of their friends who bring the following to lunch to school:  Juice box, jello, fruit snacks, twinkies, and sometimes a granola bar. 
You guessed it, my kids are the ones with a water bottle, carrot sticks, hummus wrap and apple slices.  In the long run I guarrentee they feel better!