This week or so has been a really difficult lesson in parenting. We have had a hard time with our precious Ryan. You know one of those weeks when you really feel like a failure. Like there is some rule book that all the other parents got that you missed! Mark and I know that parenting is not for the weak but sometimes it can be incredibly defeating. I'm sure that none of you have had humbling experiences, but we have had a few lately. I love my children with all my heart and unfortunately they both got a double dose of stubbornness, shyness, passion and the need to be right. Mark and I are very different, but extremely similar in those qualities. My mom loves to hear stories of how Ryan won't participate or that he has to have the last word because apparently I was the exact same way as a child. Actually, now that I think about it, I am still pretty much like that. Moving on...So mom my question for you is when did I become the awesome well-adjusted person I am now (he he)!!!! I feel like I need to write down the things that I adore most about Ryan so here goes. My top ten list of Ryan's amazing qualities:
1. Perseverance. This kid must complete a task start to finish, which I love. Last week we had the FWCS Turkey Trot 3 mile race and I am not exaggerating when I say that he ran almost the whole thing. Impressive.
2. Hilarious. I love to see his toothless grin while he tells me a funny story.
3. Tender-hearted. He is very compassionate towards others, especially those in need.
4. Smart. Like uber-smart. He was reading at 4, and he has a crazy memory. He knows every single detail about anything he's interested in. He absorbs more information than I ever did and retains it all. He is really starting to store God's word in his heart and I am amazed at how quickly this kid can learn scripture.
5. Timid. He is always taking in new situations. He's constantly assessing different scenes and people's reactions and then slowly deciding if or when he wants to participate.
6. Loving. He adores his family and friends and gets so excited for holidays and birthdays that he cannot contain himself. His cousins are his best friends and he always looks forward to seeing his grandparents, aunts and uncles.
7. Kind. When I'm not looking or paying attention he is such a great big brother. He is always looking out for his baby sister and cousins.
8. Helpful. I am quite certain that Ryan could run the household if I am ever gone. He knows where everything is and is a HUGE help to me.
9. Quiet. He loves having time alone in his room to play Legos, Star wars, his DS, or games. He needs his downtime and can entertain himself for hours.
10. Detailed. Ryan likes things the way he likes them. He is clean and organized and he likes to know the details of any new environment. He will still need to assess it for himself, but details help.
Now onto a proud parental moment...
Mark surprised Ryan when he got home with three of his very favorite things: staying up late, a coke, and a Target gift card. Basically my three favorite things too:-).
Ryan, I am so thrilled that you earned this award and that Mrs. Sims recognizes your hard work at school. We love you very much and love being your parents on both the terrible days and the great ones.
