Resolutions

In years past, I've made detailed lists of New Year's Resolutions, determined to correct every perceived flaw in my life.  I was going to practice wonderfully healthy eating habits; go to the gym every day; stick to my budget; keep the house clean; not go to bed until every dirty dish was washed and put away; read Bible stories to the kids every morning; fold the laundry as soon as I took it out of the dryer so that it didn't get wrinkled; clean the Spam out of my inbox;  plant my garden on time. . . You get the picture.  Clearly I haven't been able to keep any of those resolutions or I wouldn't be making the same ones each year.  This year, I decided that instead of abandoning my resolutions I would enlist some help.

"This is going to be THE YEAR!" I announced to Les.

He pulled his headphones off and said, "Huh?"

"Listen!" I continued.  "This is going to be the year that the house stays clean, homework gets done on time, kids go to bed on time and all that.  We've got to set some resolutions for the kids.  No more coming home from school, throwing down the backpacks and collapsing in front of the TV.  They are going to have a fixed routine and chores.  If everyone pitches in to help, maybe I will have time to join that gym!!"

I explained to Les that I was coming up with a spreadsheet that would show what chores had to be done each day of the week.  We would have a family meeting to review the chores and assign responsibilities.

Today, Jan. 2, 2013, I set off for work.  I was feeling relaxed because it was a teacher workday.  I would have time to catch up with my colleagues, clear my desk and get ready for my students.  The kids were excited about spending one last day at home.  They had planned a menu for the day and made a list of everything they wanted to do.  Around 7:25 a.m., I received a call from my wonderful friend and neighbor, Mickey.

"Hey," she said, "I just wanted to let you know that Cassie's running a little late this morning."

"What do you mean?" I asked.

"She's supposed to be here by now," Mickey continued.  "You know.... to catch her ride to school."

"THEY HAVE SCHOOL TODAY??!!" I sputtered.

"Uhh, what planet have you been living on?" asked Mickey.  (Okay, she didn't really say that.  As I just mentioned, she's my wonderful friend and neighbor.  But, seriously, she must have been thinking something close to that.)  Actually, Mickey offered to make lunches for the kids and drive them to school while I tried to find my way back to reality.  

As I drove home, I mentally rehearsed the apology speech I would give the kids.  "I am so very sorry.  I really screwed up this time.  I know, I know.  I told you not to say 'screwed up.' But, this is one time when that expression really fits.  I feel so bad about this. I will remember this mistake for the rest of my life and feel bad every time I think about it."  

When I got home, the girls came out to meet me.  They explained that Lacey had finished her homework and Cassie had practiced her violin.  Then, they helped me pack their lunches for tomorrow.  While I was cooking dinner Lacey commented that it was about time for me to start teaching her and Cassie how to cook.  After dinner, Cassie helped Lacey pick out clothes for tommorow and then went off to take a shower.   I never had a chance to issue my apology.  My error seemed to be forgiven and forgotten.  I decided that it's time for a new round of resolutions.  I have resolved to just love and appreciate my friends and family.  Everything else will somehow fall into place.