Somewhere along the way, a yard full of leaves ceases to be a playground and becomes a chore. That's why we need 3-year olds.
Here's my commentary for the day: I read this blog entry today by Jen Hatmaker advocating that we not protect and shelter our children, but raise them to be brave in the face of danger. Reading it made me think of how when I was only 7 I would go out on my bike for a few hours, usually stopping at a friend's house and then riding around ACU and all through the neighborhood. I didn't have a cell phone and I didn't have to check in every 15 minutes. I was young. I had wheels. It was awesome.
How do I raise my children today to have those kinds of experiences and the freedom to learn independence and what to do if they get lost or hurt or forget to bring money for the vending machine? My sister just got reprimanded by a neighbor for letting her children play in the front yard without supervision even though she was either in the garage or the front room of the house watching them. It's a different world. Kids practically have to be in car seats now until they start driving. Sheesh.
Brandon was complaining about how our little kids' soccer games don't keep score. He said kids need to learn how to lose. Maybe we, as a culture, got a liiiiittle carried away with self-esteem curriculum.
Also, this blog entry from Pregnant Chicken about raising kids today is hilarious.
Also, Lance Armstrong is a liar. Don't lie, kids. And if you do lie, admit it right away and ask for forgiveness. The sooner, the better. And if you're famous, do it on Oprah.
