Meanest Mom and Run-Aways

My three-year old Bella and five-year old Meri decided that I don't win the Mother of the Year Award.  In fact, I earn the "Meanest" Mother of the Year Award.  Why?  Well, I make them take naps.  Really, I'm not even that mean--I make them take "rests". 

They decided that they would run away from all of the naptimes and leave home to visit Grandma in Oregon.  So, instead of sleeping, they packed their backpacks for the journey.  When I found out, I had Chrisy {12} write a love note for them to "carry on their journey" and we all signed it hoping it would discourage them.   We were very solemn when giving them the note. (Except a few of the kids who thought this was hilarious.) We packed their bags with carrots and bananas telling them all the while how sad we'll be.  As Meri put the food in her bag she pulled out the GPS that she had packed!  Where was that in the days I wanted to run away? Clever.  Very clever.

Anyway, I told them that we'd miss them and were very sad.  I asked what they would do when they were alone in the night with the fox and owls?  Bella said, "Oh, we'll sleep in the shed!" 

Despite my urging, they gave me big hugs and kisses good-bye and with their older brother {11} following them closely they left the front door.  They got to the next door neighbor's jeep and Bella said, "Well, I'm done running away.  Let's go home!"   Thank goodness!

For Family Home Evening next week we'll be having a family safety class, including the dangers of really running away.  Kids always keep you on your toes!