I would like to recognize the hard work Lily and Ollie put in tonight at dinner. Or, rather, for dinner. Lately, I’ve been reading up on growing kids that feel part of a family, what that means, and the whole entitlement trap that is far too easy to fall into while raising them. Besides eliminating about 75% of their toys and not giving in to most requests at a store, I wanted to begin working with them on doing things for themselves-instead of relying on me or Sam to do something for them (of which they are capable or would be with some teaching). So to that end, Lily, especially, has been working with me at meals and with laundry. I thought it would be more work for me and for a bit I thought to not even try but we did and I am really glad. Yesterday she made the buttered noodles all by herself and tonight she made the salad and cheesy bread. Ollie set forks out on the table by himself. Earlier he helped put away his laundry. It’s baby steps but I think it will encourage and empower them to do for themselves (and others…namely, their family). They should be proud of their work!