My house of boys...

All the parenting books out there just don't prepare a mom who lives in a house full of boys (two teenagers and a husband) for things like this! I remember when the boys were little and how they loved loved loved to wrestle with Derek and each other - until someone got hurt, of course (usually Dalton)! And I knew in my head that loving this activity so much was common for boys - a bonding experience similar to that of bear cubs, however, it was definitely not a favorite activity of mine. Because you know, someone always ended up hurt and us moms, desire two things most of all: peace and harmony! What I wasn't prepared for is the fact that boys continue to love love love this activity as they grow. Now when these wrestling matches occur between the boys and Derek, they are much more intense, usually leaving Derek completely out of breath. :) It's so interesting to me how they all view this as FUN - each of them smiling and laughing - even though they are out of breath and yes, someone gets hurt!

So, to be consistent with the pattern of his youth, look at Dalton's black eye that he received from Derek's foot in this week's past match... Yep, Dalton is very proud of his infliction and is wearing it beautifully! May God continue to give me strength and understanding as I continue this journey of living in this house of boys! I feel truly blessed!