“Patience Iago”

You can do it, I know. Zip your coat, buckle your seat belt, brush your teeth, wash yourself, go through every item you own twice to pick out the perfect outfit (a rainbow leotard over leopard stockings with jean shorts, a purple cardigan and polka dot rain boots), you can do it all! Mommy believes in you 🙂

But, what happens when I need it done in less than 20 minutes? What happens when your sister needs to be to gymnastics at 4 and your brother basketball practice at, well would you look at that, he needs to be there at 4 too, and I need to shop for dinner before picking them both up at 5? What happens when there’s just too much to do to sit and watch you struggle with your arm in the neck hole of your shirt for 15 minutes?

This of course is a silly question because I know what you’ll say. You’ll say “Slow down, Mama” and you’ll be absolutely right. I should be more organized and not double book and leave more time for the little things that I’m going to miss when you’re 16 and wanting to spoon feed yourself has turned into wanting to drive the car by yourself. I know how important it is for you to build a sense of independence and self esteem and I should support and encourage that every chance I get. I should manage my time better and leave enough so I’m not rushing you like a mad women, insisting that I shave 5 minutes off each task by doing it for you. I should have perfect patience and do all these things, but there will be days and times where I simply do not because sometimes I am simply a mess.

So please, put your foot up on my knee and let me tie your shoe, then throw you over my shoulder and carry you to the car and put you in your car seat, all in about 30 seconds, so that I can get you to school on time. 😉