Shortcomings

Sometimes it seems like I'm suddenly smacked in the face by the reality of how hugely I've been blessed with this great big family. Also, at times, it seems like I'm smacked in the face by the reality of the insanity and chaos that this many people in one family can bring. This morning was one of those times. One of both times, actually.
As I stood at the toaster, methodically spreading butter on each piece as it popped out and handing Styrofoam plates to waiting hands, I wondered about the families that actually make real breakfasts in the morning...you know, the moms who make bacon and eggs or something that demonstrates they are aware that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Before I could ponder my apparent shortcoming for very long, my thoughts were interrupted by Brice's refusal to eat. He hates breakfast, he explained, sitting resolutely at the table with his arms crossed. Seconds later, my attempts at convincing Brice to have at least one piece of toast were spoiled as Sydney began crying out indignantly "Her touched my food! Her touched my food!" A quick peek at the other end of the table revealed Bree, leaning over Sydney's plate, poking her finger in the butter on Sydney's bread. Following that was a desperate search for the toothpaste, an argument over who owned a 3-D ruler that I've never seen before, yet three kids claim sole ownership of, and an argument regarding who has more class field trips planned for the year. Two kids tried to sneak soda out of the pantry and one kid disappeared up stairs when it was time to go to the bus stop and I "found" him five minutes after I thought everyone had left. Brice spilled milk necessitating a last minute shirt change and Sydney pitched a fit because I didn't pour her milk into the cup of her choosing.

When they all walked out the door I reconsidered my "shortcoming." Mornings are a production in our house, no matter how early we get up, or how prepared we are the night before. If I busied myself with anything more adventurous than toast, oatmeal or frozen waffles, there's no telling what my kids would destroy or what mischief they might make. I think my kids will do just fine with the simple, less than ideal but gets-the-job-done breakfast that I feed them. Afterall, the school feeds them lunch so early it really should be categorized as "brunch" and I do make pretty good after school snacks....\I'll have to find other ways to excel at motherhood. Breakfast will not be one of them any time soon.