Last Monday, as part of my Family Home Evening lesson, our family started a "Glad Jar." We had been having problems lately with too much complaining from the kids (one kid in particular, but we won't name names). So for FHE I gave a lesson about having a positive attitude. I showed the "glad game" clip from Polyanna and challenged our family to start playing the game. Whenever something bad happens (which is quite frequent--between daily chores, Jared's daily bus ride, and the inevitable dinner time when most meals are met with Ewwww's), if the victim can think of something to be glad about in the situation, he or she gets to add a puff ball to our "Glad Jar." And so far, it seems to be working!
Just this morning, I realized that I need my own version of the Glad Game. With four young kids, a houseful of housework, a demanding church calling, and other responsibilities, it is easy to become discouraged at all I'm NOT able to accomplish.
So my new goal is to focus on the little things worth celebrating in my life. I am so blessed to live in this city; have the friends and neighbors that I do; have a great church family; a wonderful husband; four sweet, healthy children; a beautiful home; and the chance to stay at home each day and enjoy it all.
So forget the mountains of dirty laundry, the sinkfull of dirty dishes, and the living room cluttered with toys. Today is a day worth celebrating.
I had an epic medieval battle with Tommy and Allison.
I found Adam's daily note to me. What a thoughtful husband!
Celebrating a clutter-free upstairs hallway!
Clean sheets on TWO beds.
We'll see what tomorrow brings. :)
