Art and Appreciation

The girls and I have been joining a local group of parents with preschool age children for some really fun field trips.  Today we piled into the car for a craft class at Michael's.  I anticipated a mess, but had no other expectations.  With the baby on my hip, I did my best to assist Ava and Mia as they created Halloween bags.  Unfortunately, Eliana insisted on pulling Mia's hair every time she was within reach.  I carefully pried her fingers open, rubbed Mia's head and attempted to distract them both.  This happened three times before a lovely grandmother suggested I put Mia's hood up to prevent Eliana from grabbing her hair.  GENIUS.  I thanked her profusely for helping me solve that problem. 

Throughout the morning, mother after mother lent a hand to one or more of my children.  Whether it was buckling someone in a stroller, rolling up sleeves, handing supplies out or offering to hold the baby, the help was very much appreciated.  I often feel gratitude when I'm in the presence of other parents.  I don't just say moms, because other dads are great, too.  They often go out of their way to hold doors open for the girls and me, always saying that they remember "those days".  I know people like to make a big deal about mommy wars, but I think they only exist if you let them.  In my world, there will never be mommy wars.  In my world, there will only be support, understanding and appreciation.

Our very abstract trick-or-treat bags