Learning Moment

Katarina has been feeling really bad about her handwriting, so I decided that today I would only say positive things as I watched her do a handwriting page.  No matter how the letter looked, I would find something positive I could say about it.  I was concerned that she wouldn't progress as well without me giving her correction, but felt that it was more important at this point to bolster her self-confidence.

But the amazing thing was that she progressed as much as, if not more than, when I gave her corrections.  She noticed the flaws in her own letters.  She commented on what was wrong and then worked to fix it on her next try.  All I did--all I had to do--was encourage her and reinforce all the good she was doing.

I know that corrections are necessary and important in life, but I can't help but wonder:  How often do I correct my children when all I really need to do is encourage them?

Only in Alaska #13

Last night we were eating dinner when Katarina called out, "An eagle!"

Sure enough, there was a bald eagle outside our window, circling and taking a look around as it migrated.

O.k., maybe I like Alaska even though there is still snow on the ground...

Funny Words #7

Every time I say something funny, my kids say, "Mom, you got that from Uncle Mark."

So apparently Mark, you get the credit for anything funny that anyone says on the Matthews side.  You have officially been dubbed "the funny one."  Congratulations.  :-)

It's Not Good to Have a Resourceful Child When...

There is an open box of Girl Scout cookies in the house.

Funny Words #6

Katarina:  I'm kind of allergic to brushing my hair.

Funny Words #5

On Saturday I got all dolled up for a date with Kelly and Xander said, "Mom, you look really pretty!"
Me:  Thanks, buddy!

(A few seconds later)
Xander:  Mom, you look really pretty!!
Me:  Thanks!

A short pause, then a little desperately:
Xander:  Do I have to find my own wife?

Thanks for the confidence booster, bud.  I wish I could marry you, too.

Tell Me Why...

What kind of an insane woman goes shopping with five kids, anyway?