Typically on the weekend we clean and work. Well I am trying to change that because I think we clean a lot when the kids are with me. Molly is usually traveling so it is a great time for me to hang out with the kids and get to know them a little better. It has been pretty tough to change my mind set, but I am working through it slowly. As I woke this morning, the first thing I did was start to clean the kitchen. Nothing too big until I woke everybody up to start helping me.
As I cleaned with the younger kids, Reddy Boy cooked scrambled eggs. Like I said, most responsible 12 year old I know. Well after it was all done I wanted to start on the kids rooms. Then I remembered that Reddy boy had a friends party to go to, so I had to get him ready for that. Anyways, as much as I wanted to tell them to clean, clean, clean, I let them go and play and watch tv shows on the Roku. So some of the kids joined me outside to work on my hand stand and walking on my hands (if your wondering why I am practicing gymnastics in my back yard it is because of crossfit). I love hearing and watching them play. It is a great reminder for me to enjoy the little time I have with these kids.
They grow up so quick. As much as I love watching them grow into amazing people, I am sad at the same time. Most parents know this feeling but every parent treats it differently. I deal with it by getting in there with them and playing with them till they can't play anymore. I hope they remember me as a fun Dad and not one that just sat there and barked at them all day to get their stuff done. Don't get me wrong, they need a little structure to learn responsibility and anyone who knows me knows that I work hard but I play harder. The key is, teaching them balance in all things: Church, Family, Work, School and every other thing they will encounter. Having an understanding of managing their time better will help them accomplish more in the day and give them an idea of what their life will be like once they leave our home. But it starts with me, all work no play would make anyone not want to work. So here's to a better balanced Dad and awesome adventures every weekend!!
Well I am off now, check out the pics below of our in house gymnastics!!!!
As I cleaned with the younger kids, Reddy Boy cooked scrambled eggs. Like I said, most responsible 12 year old I know. Well after it was all done I wanted to start on the kids rooms. Then I remembered that Reddy boy had a friends party to go to, so I had to get him ready for that. Anyways, as much as I wanted to tell them to clean, clean, clean, I let them go and play and watch tv shows on the Roku. So some of the kids joined me outside to work on my hand stand and walking on my hands (if your wondering why I am practicing gymnastics in my back yard it is because of crossfit). I love hearing and watching them play. It is a great reminder for me to enjoy the little time I have with these kids.
They grow up so quick. As much as I love watching them grow into amazing people, I am sad at the same time. Most parents know this feeling but every parent treats it differently. I deal with it by getting in there with them and playing with them till they can't play anymore. I hope they remember me as a fun Dad and not one that just sat there and barked at them all day to get their stuff done. Don't get me wrong, they need a little structure to learn responsibility and anyone who knows me knows that I work hard but I play harder. The key is, teaching them balance in all things: Church, Family, Work, School and every other thing they will encounter. Having an understanding of managing their time better will help them accomplish more in the day and give them an idea of what their life will be like once they leave our home. But it starts with me, all work no play would make anyone not want to work. So here's to a better balanced Dad and awesome adventures every weekend!!
Well I am off now, check out the pics below of our in house gymnastics!!!!