AUSTRALIA - REVISITED

So, not such a stellar day at my house. Far from it.

I don't have many horrible days, but every now and again, it happens... like on this day.

Well, my hubby flew out today and usually that brings a measure of..... um.... adjustment. During this time, the kids usually misbehave a bit... they are quite a bit more high strung. They argue and talk back. And, since I know this, I am usually prepared.

Today? Was no different until..... soccer practice.

We are all going to be incredibly busy this fall. Oldest is in band 5 days a week, Karate twice a week and guitar once a week. Number 2 and 3 are in piano once a week and soccer once a week (with games on Saturday.) My youngest has soccer once a week with games on Saturday. AND, they are all in JBQ and have to practice nightly, meet as a team on Sundays and have competitions once a month.

I am not asking for kudos. It will be tough, but doable... as long as the boys cooperate.

Well, during #3's first practice of the season, he fell and was embarrassed. Totally self-inflicted as nobody said anything except, "Hop up!" After giving the obligatory pep talk, he ran back out. Then, coach told everyone to get a drink. It seems that the water was not cool enough for his liking. So, he started crying. And during these tears, there was a lot of snot... gross, I know, but that is how much he cried. I was told that he hated me and never wanted to play soccer. I don't just shove kids in extra-curricular activities. Time and money don't allow just putting a kid in something.

He then said he was tired. He wasn't going to play. He wishes I wasn't in his family.... on and on it went for 40 minutes when I finally decided to leave.

I was angry and embarrassed and I'm still having trouble. (Fortunately, I found a bag of Hershey's Kisses and they are being utilized as a salve for my wounded heart.)

The child obviously has to be punished. I do NOT play that. So...

--because he is tired, he is in bed (by 3:30.)

--because he said he hated me, he got 3 swats.

--because he didn't practice, he is grounded from all electronics through tomorrow.

--should he choose to not practice/play, he will be grounded from all electronics until the end of soccer season. Further, he has to repay his entry fee of $55. For a little guy who only gets $5/week... this is a big deal.

Part of my feels like this is cruel. However, I asked myself "WWHD?" ("What would hubby do?") I think he will approve.

After the swats, and before bedtime, I sat and spoke to #3 about all this. I made sure he understood. (Granted, he didn't hear me when I was hissing all the threats while at the field, as he was crying so much.) Later, I know he understood as he was asking questions about how he could avoid said punishments.

So, here is hoping that he begins to practice and avoids the remainder of the consequences.

Please pray for me.... and him. Thanks.