Wednesday HodgePodge 1/23/13

1.  The popular saying 'All is fair in love and war' is originally credited to English writer John Lyly.  Is he right?

I think the crux of that statement says something about our lack of playing by the "rules."  It's one of those pithy statements made and accompanied by a smug smile and a rude hand gesture.

But to answer the question (finally):  No.  I really don't think he's right.  Of course, I don't really buy into the idea of fairness, either.
2. Are you a cereal eater?  What's your favorite kind?

Cereal is actually the love of my life (which is horrible as it's one of the worst things for my body!).  I love Frosted Mini Wheats, AppleJacks, Cookie Crisp and even Grape Nuts.  But my cereal repertoire is far from limited to these four choices. 

3. A five year old in Pennsylvania was recently given a ten day school suspension for talking with a friend about shooting one another with a Hello Kitty Bubble gun (the toy blows bubbles).  She did not have the gun with her at school. 

A psychological evaluation was also ordered and the incident was recorded on her permanent record.  The suspension was later reduced to two days and her parents are suing to have the incident removed from her file. Your thoughts? (If you missed the story, click here for details)

At some point when I was napping, adults really started allowing their strange preoccupations inform the actions of children.  And frankly?  I don't think it's OK.  I realize school shootings and the behavior that leads to those incidents needs to be taken seriously, but I also believe God put in a brain in my head (and gave me authority over some of these children) so I could use common sense when it came to dealing with these types of incidents.

This situation probably could have been rectified if the playground supervisor (teacher, principal, some authority figure) simply responded by saying, "You know, we really shouldn't point guns at other people--even toy guns.  But a bubble machine sounds like fun!  Does it make a lot of bubbles?"  The little girl likely would've understood the directive and there would've been no harm done in this situation at all.

I'm currently reading this book called Simplification Parenting and I've really started to wonder how much anxiety we're creating for our children by exposing them to these types of mentalities (and events--not sure your five year old needs to watch the CBS Evening News regularly).

4. Whatever happened to_______________________?

personal accountability

Anyone else feel like few people know how to own their own stuff anymore?

5. January 23rd is National Handwriting Day, billed as a day to reacquaint yourself with a pen and pencil.  Do you like your handwriting?  Do you prefer to print or write in cursive?  This date was chosen because its the birth date of John Hancock.  What's the last thing you signed your name to? 

I usually like my handwriting.  I sign checks at least once a month, but I spend a small amount of time writing every week in a personal journal.  I wish it were something we emphasized a bit more.

6.  Speaking of John Hancock, ever been to Philadelphia?  Do you have any desire to visit the city of Brotherly Love?

I've never been, but I also have no great desire to go.  Actually, Favorite usually has to pull me kicking and screaming on any type of vacation.  I have a great time once we're on our way, but in the planning stages?  I'm not a willing participant.

7. Share something funny you've heard a child say. 

KK recently asked me if Ryan was going "to come out through my belly button" and then looked very concerned at the size of my belly based on the size of my belly button.  She also proceeded to scream, "Hey!  It time to come out and pway (play)!"

I'm also always charmed by the way Num-Num theWonderChild has started to say, emphatically, "Nanks (thanks) you vewy much!" when you help her with her coat, give her a french fry, etc.  She just seems so relieved you've met a need she's had--like she's waited for the last six years for someone to notice she needed to take her coat off.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

LilBro is coming home this weekend to celebrate his birthday and Favorite is off on Saturday.  I am SO looking forward to it :)