After a full day at work, Alayna and I went rounds again after school. This time it was because she nonchalantly walked into Caden's daycare tonight and erased the whiteboard-artwork of him and his girl-friend. I didn't know whether to be proud that she was showing his "girlfriend" that Lil' Sis was in town, or frustrated that she was just that rude and blunt. Either way, she didn't apologize, and I fought the battle until she did.
Jarin then came home, asked if we wanted to go on a walk -- let's be real, it is beautiful out -- but I couldn't reward the little snot. She was charged with helping with laundry, making dinner, and setting the table. Dinner was served just as the boys came home from their jog.
Moogs and Miss Hayden stopped by then. Can't get enough love from that little stinker. Some day, I promised Meg that she'd give her a run for her money, just as Alayna does me. We'll see. Mom took a detour on her way home from the grocery store, and came to say hi before bedtime. This is the joy of being so close to family. We giggled together for a bit, and then Grandma reitterated with Alayna the importance of letting others know when you are in the wrong.
I chose a random bedtime story from Alayna's library as I tucked her in, (recall the occurrence from just 3 hours prior) and it ended with this:
"I love you when you're nice. I love you cranky, too.
I love you without liking the naughty things you do."
We sat together after this, my four-year-old and I, talking about the meaning. I explained that no matter what she ever did, I'd love her because I was her mommy; but that didn't make her actions right. She was actually listening, believe it or not, and even responded with, "I'm sorry." Those were the two words I worked on for nearly an hour tonight, and here in just 3 minutes, she got it.
And then I thought about the many things I may have done to disappoint my mom, sister, or husband. The negative things I may have said to them, or even my kids. Have I always stood up to say sorry? Or did I assume they knew? Sometimes it's the lack of communication that we provide to those we care most about, that leaves the biggest scar.
As my cell rang, I tucked Alayna in, and on the front of my phone I saw a photo of a far away friend, who I hadn't seen in nearly 2 years. God was making an amazing connection for me at this moment. Did she know how often I think of her; how much it meant that she called? This was my chance to do as I say, and I was sure to share how excited I was to hear from her.
I found it so thoughtful that she took the time to call, and felt so bad that I haven't been the one with initiative. For her, and many of my friends who live across the country, my lack of communication means that I owe you an apology. I do care, and think of you often.
Thank you Alayna for teaching me a message tonight. Just as I shared with you the meaning and ease in saying I'm sorry... so too is finding 30 minutes for a friend.
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