Skate Date

As parenting goes there are days when I/we feel a little strung out and like we didn't get to really spend time with the kids having quality time because there were a thousand other things demanding attention.  Piles of laundry, dishes in the sink, footprints on the kitchen floor, jam smeared on the wall and the list goes on.  I could spend all day attempting to be immaculate, but then I look at the boys and realize how fast they are growing and changing and recognize that time with them is paramount. 

During Brayden's date with mom recently he got to choose everything we did.  He and I went for a bike ride.  We took a break in the "shop" - a portion of the garage set up by Brayden to resemble Papa G's shop.  We met daddy for dinner and then headed to the ice skating rink. 

He was all smiles.  I was too.

Then, after just two long circles around the rink, Brayden asked me to sit on the sideline so he could "try it on his own". 

Ahhh, ok.  Ouch.  Independence hurts. 

He crashed.  He burned.  He flopped around like a fish trying to stand up.  He smiled.  He giggled.  He was thrilled. 

As hard as it was to watch him struggle I realized he needed and wanted to do it on his own.  It dawned on me this was a sort of metaphor for parenting.  My job is to teach him and guide him enough so that he has the confidence to do it on his own.  It was hard to watch, but seeing his determination and pride in making progress was touching. 

And, yes, I cried a tiny little bit, but they were tears of joy.

At times, I think my boys teach me more than Brian and I teach them. 

We had a wonderful, joyful night together that ended with a, "Mom, thanks for spending special time with just me. I had a great time." 

Me too, Brayden.  Me too!