We have been reading and discussing “Dare to Lead” by Brown as a family (older kids and parents) and discussing it. Actually, I bribe them to participate: all those who read it are able to attend a discussion at a local restaurant. We read a section a week. I have really loved it. And I think they are too.
One thing we are focusing on this week is the burden of perfectionism and being kind to ourselves. This has so much application: numbing, anxiety, stress, unrealistic goals and expectations accompanied by negative self-talk when they aren't met, numbing addictive behaviors, etc. I have appreciated the perspective and being able to use it this week. Just yesterday I stopped a lot of impulsive eating and snacking because I thought, “What is really driving my desire for food right now?”
Also, Brown emphasizes that “clarity is kindness.” Not being rude or abrupt. Just clarity in expectations, communication, expression. I have been able to use that in my communication with the kiddos. If something is not worth communicating clearly, it must not be worth saying or expecting. Voila!
I am working like mad to get all the costumes and props ready so that we can start rehearsing with them. It is a HUGE task, especially since I am trying to keep up our C4! Class (which was particularly amazing this week thanks to the unleashing of so many of the kids and their personalities with opportunities to present and share). They are truly inspiring each other and creating that safe and energetic environment of learning that I know can happen when operating on the guiding principles I have always used with groups:
-let the kids lead and teach
-ask lots of questions
-get them involved in different learning styles
-lots of group activities and challenges
-create a safe environment of love, respect and decency.
We have some kind of animal wandering our property making loud banging noises...like on metal. I am not sure what it is!
Quinn is working crazy hard. He is trying to spread out his appointments, but people are coming in with offering $500 rush fees! I trust that he knows what he is doing. He does take time out for us. He came to Piper's track meet with all the rest of us to support her in Alexander (she took 12th place with about 60 girls!) and went to the youth activity last night. He is a good man. We are both a little crazy with stuff right now. Do we live on a farm? Kind of :D.
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