Well, today was an exhausting day. We had to meet with our state worker about 1 1/2 hours away to sign paper work for the girls. They don't like to travel, so they weren't happy about traveling. They also didn't understand why we would still do school today, just in the car. They adjusted after some whining. The meeting went well. The girls were all dressed the same. The workers took many pictures. The girls behaved very well during the meeting. They read, played with puzzles and colored. Then lunch with a friend began and the shopping began, with a fourth 3 year old in tow. I told them we had to stop this. Buying two pair of shorts, two shirts, and sandals for three girls adds up fast. I thought I was doing well at being thrifty and the total was more than expected. God will provide.
I think they are getting used to being in our family. The tempers are flaring, arguments are happening, feelings are hurt, someone is always left out, and on and on and on. I even had one raise her voice to me tonight. I stopped that immediately. I explained that will not be tolerated in this house at all. She can ask for help to clean up the mess she made, but yelling at me will not get anyone anywhere. Morgan got me alone and cried and had some good loving time. I had to explain to her that part of the problem is that she and one girl like to have their own way and be in control. They both can't always have their way. Anyway, lots of tears and hurt feelings today. We had another family meeting tonight. We covered that God sees everything you do and say even if Mommy and Daddy don't. They are beginning to really test me. I don't know why they haven't tested my husband much. I guess they will wait until I leave the house.
I already loved them before today. Today I had to discipline them as my own birth children. It is hard to do sometimes. I know they worry about rejection, but I also worry about them not wanting to be here. I also know that I have to have very firm boundaries right now. I am so exhausted by night!! I know everything is in God's plan and they are precious children. I am sure this will get much worse before it gets better.
It has difficult moments, but I wouldn't change anything!! We are truly blessed!!
Love the new picture of your five children!!
ReplyDeleteIt is hard. Everyone has to adjust and it will get harder until everyone finds their place and then things will settle down.
I have so many "bosses" at my house it is exhausting just refereeing the bossiness. There are times I have to just demand silence. The van is one of the worst places.
During the school year since my children go to public school they get a break from each other while at school. But in the summer I set aside a time each day where my 5,6 & 7 year olds must spend time (usually 20-30 min.) alone in separate rooms. This helps them appreciate the time they do spend together more and gives them a break from each other. This might be something you could do with the girls. You could do it for 30 min and you could even spend 10 min with each girl alone during that 30 min time.
Hang in there and get some rest when you can!