I would say that I am pretty much well. This morning I did a big shopping trip, made easier by, Abby the wonderful, watching the littlest two. But it took most of my energy, and I spent the afternoon pretty much tuned out and watching a stupid movie. In the evening as I made dinner, I observed to Solomon that I am well enough to be mean, but sick enough to be more inclined to be mean. That sounds strange, but what I mean is that, while I was sickest, I for some reason was very sweet with the kids. When I did interact with them, even in resolving situations, I was patient and kind. Now that I am feeling better, I seem to be getting back to my cranky self, and feeling still a bit crummy makes me more likely to be even more cranky than my usual cranky self. *Sigh* That's frustrating.
On the other hand I have been enjoying being cuddly with the kids, something that they seem to crave and enjoy. Tonight I spent a little time snuggling with each one of them over the course of bedtime, and I really think that it was good for my relationship with each of them, that they each got that one on one time.
I want to improve my interactions with Cirdan, I really think that getting better about praising him for the wonderful things that he does, and giving lots of hugs and kisses, could help us communicate better. He seems to be a physical affection kid, and I can just see him light up when I tell him I'm proud of him.
Jaden in heading toward 4 years old, and that is the beginning of the tough years in our kids or so it seems. It's not so bad at 2 years or three, but as 4 approaches things get harder. Jaden is really getting into that pushing the boundaries time of life. He knows how to get what he wants too, so it's really keeping me on my toes, just to try to stay in tune with him. I'm behind by a step or two really, I need to get better about giving timeouts, so that he gets used to them, and knows that the warning actually means something.
Thea is so great, I feel like we have moved out of the difficult young years with her. Of course there are new challenges with her, and since she's the oldest, she gets to be the first to hit every stage and behavior. But she is a much more helpful and cooperative girl that she was even a year ago. I am happy to see her self-confidence growing, as she masters concepts in school. She still loves a nice back rub at bedtime though, it's nice to know she's still my baby on some level. :)
Zoe is the cutest thing on the face of the planet, and more of a little girl every day. I just love to see her and watch her move. She doesn't just walk, she grooves. She walks and leans from side to side as she goes. It's too cute! She doesn't have many words yet, Mama, Papa, Yeah, and Up, but they are so cutely said! She's very into learning body parts lately, to keep her happy while changing her diaper, I just have to ask her where her nose is, and were off! She knows her nose, her head, her ear, and her mouth. We are working on eyes, and getting her to notice that she has two ears, and we are making progress. She is so much fun. The closer she gets to sleeping all night, the more adorable she is too... go figure!
Having Tykah here living with us is awesome! It is such a joy in my life to get to interact with her everyday. I need to work harder to get to know her better as an individual. I guess that's kinda what I could say about everyone in my family, heck, everyone anywhere. But I do need to start with the people that live in my house with me. Perhaps as I work to overcome all codependency I will come to know them each better for who they really are, instead of who I assume them to be in reference to me.
Ahhh Life, Its' good. :)
