Good Report

Tonight my mom agreed to watch the boys so Paul and I could go together to Report Card Pickup at school. Tonight was our first report card night with all four big boys in the elementary. That was a nice feeling because although I started to worry we'd be in the elementary wing of our school until the end of time, I also realized that since we had such high representation, there would most likely be a teacher free in at least one classroom at any given time.

Throughout our evening, as we quickly moved in and out of each classroom, I was reminded again of how much I love my husband. Having all these boys has indeed given me a greater appreciation for him, in large part these days because I am quick to refer my children to their father on any number of issues. He knows where they are coming from. I, often times, do not.

As we spoke with each teacher about how each boy is doing, I was encouraged and proud. I'm proud of how well my sons are doing in school, how hard they work. They are not perfect, not to worry. But they are so very good. The one boy who was literally climbing the walls in the bathroom one recent day? He's no longer doing that sort of thing! Progress!

I'm proud, too, of my husband. It's clear, on an evening like tonight, the important role he plays in the formation of our boys. I know I'm crucial in all this of course. But there are so many times when an encouraging word from dad, or a strong exhortation, is all it takes to turn the tide of behavior. And I love that I'm married to a man who recognizes the importance of his relationship with his boys, and who takes it seriously.

But just as important is that he helps me not take it all too seriously. One of the greatest challenges of having boys, as a woman, is to avoid freaking out on a regular basis. Paul helps me chill out. And that, I think, is among his most important contributions to this family.