Little People, little problems

Monday was a rough day at our house.  I had two tween girls who were recovering from a band trip where they didn't get enough sleep.  Need I say more?  The afternoon was full of frustration and tears.  I finally sent everyone to bed early and sat down on the couch feeling discouraged about my parenting skills.  Or, I should say the lack thereof.  As my kids get older I feel more and more clueless about what I am doing.  I am just guessing and then second guessing and sometimes third guessing (yes, it's a thing).

As I sat on the couch, Taylor emerged from the stairs in her floral nightgown.  She was frowning and proceeding to explain that she couldn't stop thinking scary thoughts.  I immediately let out a sigh of relief combined with a jump for joy.  Bad dream and scary thought?  I knew how to fix that.  She snuggled up next to me and I gave her some advice.  Then, I told her that singing a primary song helps a lot.  We sang three.  A few minutes later I sent her to bed smiling where she promptly fell asleep. My mood had changed too.  I felt like a competent and useful mother.

I am so grateful for five year olds and their simple problems.  Life with little ones definitely has it challenges, but it also has so many blessings.  With little kids, I could meet all their basic needs everyday.  A small misbehavior could be cured by a time out or a nap.  There were lots of hugs and "I love yous" daily.  There was so much more confidence in my mothering abilities.  Most days I felt tired, but successful.

My older kirs are so much fun too!  I can see the freedom and joy that I can feel with older kids.  I get a glimpse of that between the drama.  But, on Monday, I was especially grateful for my sweet five year old and her simple problems.  Heavenly Father sent her down the stairs to teach me and help me.