Come, Mommy

We’ve started a new tradition here at the Menagerie House. When Kiri stands for the longest time ever, we shout, “Let’s hear it for the standing! It’s a Personal Best!” When he takes the longest string of steps ever, it’s “Let’s hear it for the walking! A new personal best!” It’s really a lot of fun, and Kiri gets such a proud look on his face that sometimes we stretch things a bit just to get a new Personal Best (I “accidentally” over-counted a string of steps today just to get him a Personal Best.)

Last week the boys were with me at the gas station. For the first time ever I broke $50 filling my car, and I said something about, “Ugh! I’ve never spent that much money filling my car before! I’m frustrated at how much gas costs!”

I looked in the back to see a very confused looking 4-year-old in the rear seat. “Mommy? I don’t think it’s bad you spent more than ever on gas. It’s a new Personal Best! Let’s hear it for buying gas! Let’s hear it for Mommy’s Personal Best!”

I really hope this sense of optimism stays with Liam forever. Being able to make lemonade out of lemons is a valuable skill.”