On one hand I liked having her home for the summer with no set schedule. We could come and go as we please, and her and Ridge have been learning ways to play together.
On the other hand, we have had a few difficulties.
For the few weeks prior to school starting, we seemed to be having a power struggle. Jade did not want to obey or help around the house, plus she was getting good at ignoring us and even started lying! It was a difficult few weeks. I was frustrated, my patience was gone, and I was sad that my strong relationship with Jade was weakening drastically.
We have been explaining things like trust, honesty, and obedience to her—and that they make us happier than when we lie and disobey. I have been trying to get Jade to be more helpful with tidying up after making a mess—which had been one of our constant battles. One day as I was doing dishes, I had the thought that I should talk to her about how much work mom has to do. At first I told myself I was being whiny, but then I thought, “no, she needs to understand.” How can I expect her to tell me about her emotions if I can’t share with her how I am feeling? In short, I sat down with her and explained that moms don’t get to play all day. We have a lot of work to do, but if she helps Mom by being obedient and keeping the apartment clean, I’ll have more time to spend with her.
Honestly, I don’t know if it was our little talk or merely school starting and her having constructive activities in the morning, but one day it seemed to click. She actually vocally told me she decided she was going to be a good girl and try to be obedient. Ever since then things have been totally different. She truly has been trying to be happy, helpful, and obedient. We have seen the difference in our relationship with her. She is much happier, I am much happier, our home is much happier. I find myself having more fun with her, and my love for her has grown even more deeply.
I always thought it kind of sad that moms get so excited for their kids to go back to school. If this is what back to school always feels like for moms, I guess I now understand!
2 comments:
Jadyn is such a good girl, I'm sure if she decides to throw you a curve ball it really catches you off guard. I think it was smart of you to explain about your day to her, because I know how she has always expected you to play with her any spare time you had. And I love how she decided she'd do better. Could she be any sweeter? Nope, I don't think so!
I was like you and thought it was sad when moms were excited for their kids to go back to school. I laugh at myself now because they do drive me crazy sometimes (when they are all home and daddy is not), but I miss them like crazy once they're in school. Oh, the ironies =). Jade is such a sweetie!
Post a Comment