I read an article last week by the almighty Jen Hatmaker (she is my hero;), that really made me stop and THINK. It was about her parenting yes’s and no’s, and of course it got me wondering what my version of this would be. I don’t think there is a mom out there that doesn’t double (triple) over think everything they do, whether they are new to parenthood or not. Just when I think I have something down pat, they go and change on me, or they ask a question I’m not sure how to answer. With summer fast approaching, and lots of opportunities to be all together all the time again (insert clenched teeth emoji face!), I wanted to share what my yes’s and no’s will be. Let’s do this!

I say yes to:

Sleepovers in each other’s rooms. I mean, it’s summer vacation, and we can be a little bit more lax around here. Plus, their giggling after the lights go out is cute.

Staying up late to read books. I actually can’t say no to anything that involves reading more.

Anything that involves going outside. Running though the sprinkler, chalk in the driveway, swimming in the pool, walks through the neighborhood, and intricate fairy house built out of sticks. Yes to it ALL.

Doing my exercising outside rather than at the gym a couple of days a week, where they ride their bikes and I run beside them. They love seeing mommy running, and get to challenge her to go faster;)

Staying up past bedtime for special stuff, like drive in movie theaters and cookouts with friends.

Letting them dress themselves if they wish, and giving them the option to express themselves though clothing (even if they look straight up CRAZY sometimes, ha.)

Eating boatloads of fruit, straight from the container. We are in peach and strawberry overload over here.

I say no to:

Anything that comes on during a commercial. We don’t actually really need a Zippy Sack or a Magic Pen or a magic bubble blower. Ever.

Any toy in the $$ section at Target, or the toy aisle, or the overpriced novelty item that all the kids are playing with right now. It’s just one more thing to throw out in a month or two when they forget about it and move on.

Hearing the statement “I’m bored”, or “I don’t have anything to do.” I find boredom tends to bring their imagination to the next level, and forcing them to figure it out themselves brings awesome moments.

Extra sweets at the grocery store, or dessert every night. I don’t like the expectation that sweets come at the end of every meal, or treats are expected during normal grocery store runs.

99% of all video games, excessive television, and movies or computer games that aren’t age appropriate or approved by me first. We watch a bit more television in the colder months, so my thought right now is, “It’s nice out, so go OUTSIDE!”

Cranky kids and bickering. The second I feel that they are on the edge I find that a forced “quiet time” (1-2 hours in our rooms alone on the days we are home) recharges us all and makes the afternoon better. A short nap helps me, too!