[ShangriLewis]

We have a really comfy living room. Right now I'm on the Green Chair (It's a chair and a half). Escher got a pillow and a blanket and he snuggled up with me. He's really cranky and could probably use a nap, but I think it's too late. We have the green chair with ottoman, my grandma's rocking chair has a small sheepskin on it, my mom's kid size rocking chair and two couches. I keep lots of pillows and blankets everywhere. That way if someone needs a rest they can get it. We have alot of books and books on tapes from the library. Books are usually lying all over the place. I can't imagine having another corner

That being said the boys usually go to my room if they need a break. Gibran (8) takes green bunny and sometimes a book on tape. Porter(5) takes purple frog and a Dr. Suess book. Sometimes I join them. If they are really upset we talk about it. I always talk with them and sometimes pray if they were really upset or hurt someone.

Gibran likes to go upstairs if the other boys are bothering him and it's making him "cranky." He is actually doing very well with giving himself breaks. I think it's getting easier with having more kids. Gibran really models to the younger ones. And, we try to model to the boys.

If I get upset with Porter and raise my voice, I will often tell him I'm sorry and I love him. Can we go snuggle in my bed. I really want them to learn to take a break and rethink things, so they can make a good and loving choice. It's strange that it's become a habit. That I can say I think you need a break and they go to my bed.

I can't pick up Gibran anymore, but until I can no longer pick up my kids I love to scoop up a frustrated child and set them in my lap or snuggle with them in my bed. Sometimes they just really need someone to stop the situation and give them a do-over. Like when you are having a bad day and you take off for an unscheduled day the park or the beach. It's that feeling.