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Teens and Toddlers

It really does not matter what kind of day it has been. Once the day turns to bedtime, thirst and giggles make their appearance. In my home I have an 8, 6 and 3 year old. Every bedtime routine is the same. Baths (if needed), last drink, last snack, brush teeth, pj's, prayer and good night. But despite the activities or length of the day, the children have, without my blessing, added a few items to their to-do list. This would include (but not be limited to) coming back out for one more last drink, one more hug, one more kiss, one more question, one more joke, five more questions or another trip to the bathroom.

I've tried discipline, bribery, moving bedtime back, moving bedtime forward. Apparently they will end up tiring and falling asleep at least a half an hour after when I wanted to last see them for the day.

Oh. It also does not matter what kind of day it has been at work. Once the hours turn past when God wanted to be awake, I mention that the teens should be tired. After all, they haven't had food in about 16 hours. They are participating in the 30 Hour Famine to raise awareness and money for World Vision. They have somehow pushed themselves to this point and yet still desire to watch a movie, which we do. At 2am (19 hours without food, for those keeping score) they agree (or simply give up) and get around for bed. And then it happens.

I actually had a teen ask for one more drink. After granting his request, I lay myself down, thoroughly exhausted. Just 10 minutes later, I have 3 guys storm into my office where I was going to sleep. Why you ask? To giggle like little school children and tell me they wanted to do one more thing before going to sleep. Apparently they will tire about 5 hours past when I wanted them to.

I love my children. I love my teens.
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