Snow Days....

I think it is safe to say that we all are going a little stir crazy! Having an unexpected snow day in the middle of the winter can be fun, and can break up our routines, but too much snow, and too many days off from school (and work) can wreck havoc with our over packed schedules, create stress and sometimes be very demotivating.

Our neighborhood streets are still pretty bad since we haven't been plowed. I have been able to get out, but on a limited basis. Yesterday, I worked out at home and after my surge of endorphins kicked in, proceeded to organize my office closet, and knock out a few work to dos that I've delayed getting to. While I was busy doing my work, I told my kids, who were home from school again, that I'd take them to Krispy Kreme donuts if they got their rooms picked up and sheets changed on their beds. My daughter needed some help because she is only 5, but my 8 year old brought his laundry down to the laundry room, made-up his bed and picked up his room so that I could dust and he could vacuum. Though he will usually grumble when I remind him to clean-up his space, I can tell he has pride in his room and things, and I feel good knowing he is learning essential life skills. We all felt great that we had accomplished some things before heading off to get their donuts. It was a miracle that I was able to resist getting one...I think the work out helped with that.

I think a major winter snowstorm and the way it encourages neighbors to reach out and help each other is a great teaching tool for parents. My husband and I talked with our son about how proud we were that he had on his own, tried to help some of our neighbors with their shoveling. We talked about how important it is to help neighbors who live by themselves and who may not be as physically able to deal with the snow.

I hope the schools reopen tomorrow...unlikely, but if they don't, I am hopeful that I will work on some other projects I have been putting off. And who knows, maybe I can get my kids to work on cleaning up the playroom.