Taming the Craziness..

It was one of those days. The kids woke up crying, apparently starving because I refused to give them another snack before bedtime. The boys started fighting over little things, whether or not one of them said no or yes... Allie had been whining pretty much all morning. Unfortunately food did not fix their mood, and it was starting to wear on me. I could feel the transformation within me, similar to the hulk, just not so green. Blood pressure rising, becoming frustrated easily, and overall-irritated. How does this happen? How does an adult allow their mood to be completely changed by a 5, 3, and 1 year old? I realized my response was the problem. I find that if I take time for God in the morning before my children awake, and invite him into my day, I still have to turn to him when I am tempted to become overwhelmed. I can't simply invite him into my day, and neglect to turn to him when I need him. I made a vow a long time ago, to never be the crazy lady at Walmart. You know, the one who is screaming at her kids at the top of her lungs... I have never been that lady at wal-mart, but have found myself responding poorly and less than dignified in the comfort of my own home.

I have been listening to Connie Brown's parenting teaching lately, and something she spoke still resonates within me. "the growth of the parent, directly correlates with the growth of the children" in other words, if you as a parent, are not stretching, growing and maturing you will hinder your children. Remembering to respond correctly in the middle of it is difficult at times. When all the kids are screaming in the middle of Walmart I definitely understand the why's behind the "crazy lady's" reaction. Without Jesus I don't know how parents do it? How do they regain composure and make the right choice when it matters so much? Our children are watching our responses. We can tell them all day how to act, but if we can't muster up our own self-control they too will have issues. They are learning more from watching us than listening. (we all know they don't listen 1/2 the time anyways!) So my vow is to not be the crazy lady. At Walmart, or at home. To allow what I believe to govern what I think, say and do. (sound familiar Rhema-nites?) To allow my beliefs more control in my life than my emotions. It is easier said than done. Which is why, when I see the crazy lady at Walmart, I refuse to judge her, but pray for her. Offer a slight smile to her, hoping to catch her eye, and let her know I understand. If it weren't for the grace of God, and his strength in my life, I might be right there with her. As I type this, Liam is Hung-ary, Allie is POUNDING on her Piano and "singing" (Screaming) and Aedon is yelling at Liam to stop talking. :) And I am believing this Scripture...

Isaiah 40:31" But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint."