Accomplishments & Conversations......

I have a couple of fun things about the kids to share with you.

First up, I'm happy to pass along that Bryce earned his white belt in Karate last week. I think I mentioned that Bryce received Karate lessons for Christmas as a way to work on traits of self discipline and self control. We have been extremely pleased with our decision. Bryce really does love it. And, not only is it designed to "foster humility, discipline, a generous attitude, and integrity", it seems to also be teaching Bryce the concept of earning what you want. You must earn each belt, and you can only test for a new belt at the invitation of the instructor. So, it is totally at the instructor's discretion, and even then, the student must prove his ability in order to receive the belt. I must admit, it was hard watching Bryce go to class when he was the only kid in class without a belt. Not only was it hard for me, but it was hard for Bryce too. There were several times that he went home asking when he would get a belt or telling me how badly he wanted one. However, the wait made the reward all the more sweeter.(Something I'm trying to remember with our adoption) And, hopefully, Bryce will realize that he has to work for what he wants, and perseverance does eventually pay off.

Now, don't get me wrong, I don't know that Bryce actually thinks through or realizes all of the "behind the scene lessons" that I hope this little venture is instilling - after all, he's only 5; but I am hopeful and prayerful that he will one day, and in the meantime, we do all in our power to talk about it to help him along.


Above Bryce is testing for his belt.

Each time a child earns a new belt, all the kids clap a rhythm pattern while the instructor ties the new belt on. That's about it as far as ceremony, but you should have seen the smile on Bryce's face.

Here is Bryce with his best buddy, Mason. After class, we went out to eat with Mason and his sister, Malley and their mom (my friend) Tamara. As you can see from the picture, Bryce takes his Karate seriously. His arms are in a particular karate stance (although I don't know which one). Bryce will earn stripes on his white belt and then he will work towards his orange belt.

And while I'm bragging on my little man, I'll go ahead and add that Bryce got a 'good report' among his take home papers from school today. As far as I know, he's never been 'in trouble', but this is the first compliment we've gotten too. The note said, "Bryce encourages and helps the other children. He is a great helper." So, that just does a mother good. Especially, when we've been working so hard and praying about some other issues. While I'm at it, if any of you moms out there have any particular tools or tricks that deal with selfishness, I'd love to hear it in the comments. But, for today, I'm concentrating on the many good traits.....and he certainly has them. Perseverance and helpfullness.....I'll take it!! Sometimes I wonder if the Lord gives these little glimpses to help us as parents persevere.......maybe I'm learning some good qualities too.

Well, the title was accomplishments and conversations. Obviously, the first one is covered, so let me tell you about a little conversation I had with my daughter on the way home from church Sunday. This conversation was completely out-of-the blue. I have no idea what brought this conversation about, but listen in:

SK: (In her most pitiful voice) Mom, do you still love me?

Me: Of course I love you Sara Kate, I will always love you.

SK: WEEELLLL, you have to follow the woolz.

Me: Follow the rules? What rules?

SK: If you love me, you can't spank me anymore...

Me: Sara Kate, I think the rule is, I spank you BECAUSE I love you.

Suddenly, Sara Kate lost interest in our conversation.......

Kids are hilarious......and parenting is not for the faint at heart!

Until next time....