On an average day here, once 3:00 hits, it is my time.
The older boys go out to play with their friends at the park in our neighborhood or to a friend’s house. Little E watches Curious George and CyberChase on PBS or plays with his toys, often both. And I finally - FINALLY - get some much needed semi-alone time.
Well, that all changed last Friday when Big E’s conscience got the best of him and he confessed to us that they had been going out of our neighborhood to a store with one of their friends.
This is clearly out of their boundaries. They know this. There is no gray area here.
So, they were grounded. The confessor less so than the denier - yes, Big D denied it! - but I have had both older boys here every day this week. No TV. No friends.
This has been a very difficult week for Mom.
This morning, I got up early to have some time to myself before everyone else got up.
Here I am in the living room, just about to enjoy the sweet sound of silence, and who should come out, with his big pile of stuffed dogs in his arms, looking for a mama to snuggle with, but Little E.
I never thought I would be unhappy to see that cute face, especially when he is looking to snuggle.
But, I was.
I still snuggled with him, though.
4:15 pm on February 29th, 2008
I understand the need for quiet time. I remind myself that one day the kids will be gone. Then it will be too quiet. Well, after a year or two anyway…