My Greatest Idea So Far

Greg and I are so very tired of constantly nagging our children about taking care of their things and being responsible (aren't most parents?). So, while Greg was getting ready to ream them a new butt, I jumped in with this new idea. I told my children that since they have not proven they can be responsible and good stewards of all Dad has worked so hard to provide (through God's providence), they are being stripped of most of their possessions. Once I thought I had "nothing" to take away from my children as punishment, now I realize how wrong I was. I will NEVER, EVER take my love away from them. It is BECAUSE I love them so much that we are now travelling down this road. So, this is how it works. They are allowed to have 1 (one) outfit, which includes underthings, socks, shoes, pants and shirt, and any necessary outside gear. They are allowed one (1) pair of pajamas. And they are allowed one (1) toy. IF, and this is a very big if at this moment, they can prove to be responsible with this "one set", then more may be added. The thing is.....so far (and it has only been a couple of hours) it is working. They are very bothered by this situation. I find is funny to see what they have chosen as their toys.

Jacob - binder of football cards
Grace - toy laptop computer
Jadyn - coloring book and markers
Grant - basketball.........monster truck........nerf gun.......

I don't think Grant is getting the concept. However, he is playing with JUST one thing at a time. So, hopefully this will lead to putting one toy away when he is finished with it. Grace is most disturbed by the whole clothes thing. She does not want to be the "stinky girl in class". Geez.....I don't want her to be that either. I sure hope she takes care of her clothes, instead of shoving them into the back of the closet.

Anyway, we will see how tomorrow goes. Thankfully for them, they have one more day before back to school. One more day to be responsible.