Lately, I’ve been worn down by the constant battle of wills with both of my babies. For every gentle “no” I give, I get at least twenty whines in return. And it’s not because they’re bad kids—far from it. They’ve actually been through more this year than many adults could handle, and they’ve faced it all like little champions. Three moves. Mommy’s cancer diagnosis. Two surgeries. All in one year. That’s enough upheaval to rattle anyone. Somewhere along the way, I almost forgot how deeply all of that was affecting them.
The truth is, this year has been full of transition, and it’s been hard on both of them. I feel like I spend most of my days saying, “no,” or “stop that,” or “put down the cat.” They need constant guidance, firm boundaries, and watchful supervision.
A lot of… me.
And if I’m being honest, I’m a little burnt out. So today, I decided to try a small experiment. I needed to loosen my grip just a bit and relinquish some control. I wouldn’t call it a total success—because it’s definitely not sustainable long-term—but for one day?
It was kind of amazing.
I made it my goal to limit how often I said “no.”
When my son got overheated outside and asked if he could jump into the pool fully dressed, I said yes. When my daughter asked to wear a hand-me-down dress that was way too big to church, I made sure she was covered—and then I said yes. When they begged to use the bubbles I had been saving for next week, I said yes. And when they asked for ice cream after lunch, complete with cherries and whipped cream, to their absolute shock…
I said yes.
And you know what happened?
Nothing terrible. There were wet clothes to dry. A few extra wiggles after all that sugar. That size-five dress is now clean and back in the far corner of my daughter’s closet. I’ll buy more bubbles next week.
All things considered, it was a pretty spectacular day. It reminded me that there’s something valuable in indulging the occasional ridiculous request.
A spontaneous, fully dressed jump into the pool feels like a mischievous adventure—even at 35. (Yes, I joined them.) Ice cream really does taste better when it’s basically brunch. And bubbles? They should never be on a budget. Period.
The truth is, I resent being the disciplinarian, even though I know it’s necessary and good. So today, I gave myself permission to pick my battles.
I picked very, very few.
And honestly?
It was freaking amazing.
100% would recommend.
Chill a little, mamas. The kids are alright.
