Independence

Independence day. When I think of the word Independence, I think about how the children in our household have changed regarding independence in the last three short years.

All three of our kids can dress themselves. Granted, it may not be an outfit I would have put together, but they can put on their clothes all by themselves.

All three of our kids do not need diapers (during the day) anymore. In the midst of diapering, you never think it will end. Now that those days are behind us, you realize how short a time it was and how the days just kind of faded away without a lot of acknowledgement.

Although they may not do so, all three of our children can follow directions. When they don't, it is because they make the decision not to. Not because they don't know what is being asked.

All three kids can bath themselves. We are still very involved with it to decrease the water level all over the bathroom floor, but they can put shampoo in their hair, soap themselves off and get out and dressed. I admit that we still take a decent size role in this activity. :)

All three children have friends that are important to them. I'm thankful that they would almost always choose mommy & daddy to play with first, but I am thankful that they recognize the value of their friends and are interested in spending time with them.

All three children can help empty the dishwasher.

All three children can help in some aspect of getting dinner on the table. Whether it is helping to prep the food or set the table, they can assist.

All three children know right from wrong and will try to do right most of the time.

It is staggering the level of independence that a 6,4, and 3 year old can show. I am humbled to their mom and hope that I can continue to teach them to be independent and loving children.

God Bless America on this 4th of July!