Every Once in a While

Although I can give myself a hard time, I think I mostly do a pretty good job at this mom gig.  Most nights, I feed the kids a healthy dinner away from the television, get them in the bath and through our night time routine, and then to bed around eight.  This doesn't happen every night, and when it does it is often met with much resistance, and it can be a lot of work on my part.  But I know it is worth it in the end to stick to my guns, and persevere.  However, I also know that there is something to be said for throwing rules and schedules out the window every once in a while.  Sometimes, the kids just need a fun night of movies and comfort food, and sometimes mommies need it too.

I worked in the shop today and as the end of the day was nearing, and I was thinking of what to make for dinner, I had a brilliant idea.  Why not let myself off the hook tonight?  I decided that tonight would be one of those "every once in a while" nights, so after work, I hurried to the store on my way to get the kids.  I picked up a frozen pizza, some ice cream sandwiches, and some wine.  When we got home, I put a movie on for the kids, preheated the oven, and relaxed.  While the kids ate their pizza in front of the movie, I ate mine with a glass of wine in front of my computer.  I browsed through Pinterest, chatted on Facebook, and basically did nothing worth mentioning.  It was awesome. 

Even though it was nearly bedtime, when the movie was over I gave the kids some ice cream sandwiches, much to their delight, and put on another short show.  Finally, I decided they should get ready for bed.  I brought their pajamas out into the living room, and we tickled each other and laughed, as we very slowly got ready for bed.  Tessie brought up brushing teeth, and we happily wandered into the bathroom.  We read two long books, then I tucked them in, and left their room in a great mood.  I had a great night, and I can't say that every night.  There was no arguing, no whining or complaining.  I will definitely go back to our regular routine tomorrow night, but every once in a while, taking it easy can be pretty beautiful.