Wednesday, June 1, 2011

It takes a village

We went to visit my family in Florida for two and half weeks (thanks mom and dad!) and just got back home this past weekend.  I learned something while I was there....  it really does take a village to raise a child.  And not just any village, but one comprised of your extended family.  There were always extra arms to pick up the baby and willing aunts/uncles to play with the boys.  There was my mom to make meals and help pack everyone into the car.  At the end of the day, I didn't have a headache, I wasn't testy, and I wasn't counting the minutes until I could put the boys to bed.  In fact, I kept them up late more nights than not.  It was lovely to really enjoy all my children instead of feeling like all I'm doing is instructing and avoiding catastrophes all day.  Granted, they had a pool and beach at their disposal, new toys, interesting surroundings, which all worked to help them be on their best behavior, but it really was cool to see how much easier things are when you have a host of people who really love your kids helping you.  I can only imagine what it would be like to have it all the time, and what that would add to my childrens' personalities.  So count your blessings if you live near your family (yes, I understand that it probably comes with some difficulties) and if you don't, enjoy every minute that you get to spend with them.