I just want to brag on my kids a little bit today. They have certainly stepped up to the plate in the short few days since daddy has left. They have been cooperating with each other very well and helping me out around the house so much. On a normal day when I ask them for help with something I usually get the annoying sigh and then they turn around and continue to do whatever is was they were doing before I asked. Many times it would turn into a fight trying to get them to act. In the past couple days, however, I haven't heard a single sigh from any of them.
Tristan asked me Friday if I would take him to the beach to surf, so that's what we did today. I asked them to help me pick up the house this morning so we could go to the beach later. "Sidetrack Sydnee" had to be told more than once to pick up her things, but the other two didn't take long at all. In Syd's defense, she was picking up her things, she just gets so tempted to play while she's picking up and gets sidetracked with the first task of actually picking up. She did get it done eventually though. It didn't turn into a fight just several reminders to get her back on track.
The kids helped me pack up our things in the truck without having to be told and we were on our way. I was so proud of them that we stopped at McDonald's for a treat on the way there. Once we got there, everyone grabbed their own things and we walked down to the beach. It was a short trip due to cloudy weather and wind, the kids got cold, but Tristan was able to get in a little surfing and the girls played in the water too. It was nice and relaxing just sitting out there watching them have a good time. Tristan came in and decided he was done so he told the girls it was time to leave and they walked up to us without any complaints. I usually get the, I don't want to leave yet whine, but not this time.
The rest of the evening has gone just as smooth. After a quick trip to the commissary, Tristan helped carry in the groceries, we had dinner and now they're just hanging out in the living room together. I'm so proud of them for being so well behaved for me. It sure does take a lot if stress out of the day and makes me much more bearable to be around. When they start fighting I can't stand it, since they do it constantly, and I'm not a very nice mom. I've been praying for them to behave better and for me to have more patience. Looks like it's paid off. God is working in their little hearts as well as mine. Thanks to all of you who keep us in your prayers also. God is listening and he's working in each of us to help us through this deployment with smiles on our faces and joy in our hearts. Keep praying for Trint too. I don't know where he is right now and I don't know when I'll talk to him again, but I do know that God is looking out for him so he's going to be just fine.
If you're reading this baby, just look up and know that you'll be home in my arms before you know it! I love you with all my heart!
