The title of this post, Raising Grateful Children in an Entitled World, is a fantastic book recently written by Kristen Welch. I have been on the launch team for the book, helping with promotion. As I've read through the book I realized this book of wisdom and eloquent prodding is exactly what I need in my parenting repertoire. It has brought to light something I knew existed, but had never faced head on with my children.
A few nights ago we pulled up to eat at a favorite place- Zaxbys. As soon as we turned in the parking lot my middle starts in with the complaints. I attempt to nip it in the bud early on so the family can peacefully enjoy our chicken dinner, but to no avail. My efforts were sidelined when while pulling Baylor out of her car seat we discovered she has poop all the way up her back. Fun times I tell ya. I turn around, realizing I am about to change my baby girls diaper on a public changing table that likely has had lines of cocaine on it and find my middle has tears welling up in his eyes because he has to "eat at this disgusting place" (He hates chicken. Who does he belong to anyway?) My patience had juuuuuust about run its course at this point and I instructed said child to pull it together. Simultaneously I am hurrying to change Ms. Poop Back who has poop literally wrapped around her waist like a belt. Is this real life? Also, the floors had apparently been sprayed with cooking grease because I was sliding everywhere. It was a sight folks. Middle child continues to decompensate crying "it's so unfair. I need to play a game on your phone. I hate chicken." Did I mention we were en route to DISNEY WORLD??? The most MAGICAL PLACE ON EARTH? I seriously felt like I had failed as a mother. But, he is an emotional, tired 5 year old so I try to give him (and myself) a break. The tug of war between wanting to give my child the world and raise him to be grateful continues.
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