As Gretchen Says, I Put on My Big Girl Undies

Today, I am wearing my big girl undies, as Gretchen would say. Yesterday, I neglected to do so and ended up having a frustrating morning with Son, who had not changed his clothes, brushed his teeth or put his medicine on his wart, as he has for the past two weeks. I was running behind, frustrated by my lack of wardrobe options this far into pregnancy and my temper was short. But I forgot the important factor - that I am in the adult and Son is the child.

So this morning, again, Son had not changed his clothes when I came downstairs. He was playing Dora the Explorer games on the computer and was distracted. My fault - should not have let him play games until he was ready. But, instead of getting frustrated with him, I simply said, "Here, let's do it together." No tears, but laughter. And on the way to school, we talked about doing things like a big boy and helping mom.

Yes, I put on my big girl panties this morning. I remembered that I am the adult. I am the one in control, ultimately. This nearly 5 year old boy depends on me for a lot and does not need to be berated for not changing his clothes or brushing his teeth.

I feel so much better this morning. It's these little things that make my day.