The Need for BOTH Parents in the Home

Today I had a stark realization that I as a mother am not enough for my children; they need their father in so many ways. This wasn't a new idea as I have always felt that I valued my husband and all that he contributes to our home. He is an integral part of all that goes on and I suppose that sometimes it takes an absence to realize the impact that they have on the household.

This morning as I was getting ready for church and spreading myself much too thin in trying to shower, apply my makeup, curl my hair, change diapers, remind John to shower, iron clothes, feed children, prepare the Sunday bags, gather snacks, make chocolate banana milkshakes on the way out the door, corral the dog into the laundry room, set the hosue alarm, get into the van, realize that I have left the posters I worked so hard on to teach the song we are learning in Primary in the kitchen, run back in, reset the alarm, go back to the van and speed along to church the thought came to me that I have not been able to give my kids the attention that they so desparately need. It's kind of funny because both John and Abigail have asked at separate times if their grandparents are going to come visit while dad is gone. They need a break from me sometimes and I think that having Marc around helps to break up the monotony of being with the same adult 24/7.

It's almost amusing to think that I become so frustrated with the kids because I feel that I have to ask them on average ten times to do the same task before it gets done, but when Marc is around that number is split between us so it takes the edge of the frustration level. I am trying to not become frustrated with things and keep a smile on my face. I am also trying to set limits. It seems that I slack in this area a lot when Marc is gone mainly because the enforcement of any and all discipline falls on my shoulders. Many times I have found it easier to give in and avoid a struggle than sticking to my guns. Take tonight for instance. I told John that if he didn't eat he wouldn't get dessert. I haggled with him for over half an hour and finally left the table. I just threw the rest of his dinner away and then actually gave him a cookie later in the evening. I have given in to Abigail too many times as well.

Hopefully I will be able to make the necessary adjustments to better help my children. Perhaps one day I will acheive "perfect parent" status--yeah right!! For now what I have most learned to value is all that Marc contributes in raising our children.