I started the Orange Rhino Challenge on August 16th to Yell Less and Hear More. When I started it I was certain that I would have setbacks and days where I would slip up but I certainly did not think that would happen less than a week into the Challenge. So, last night I was trying to rest because I felt a migraine coming on and the Kiddies were running around and for whatever reason they seemed to be extra active. That or my nerves were extra raw. Then the youngest started jumping up and down…like Hulk stomping on the floor. I asked him to stop once. Then told him to stop. Then Hubby joined in! Like seriously? What was going on?
Then suddenly it was like someone blew a whistle and told Hubby and Kiddies it was time to play Chase Me all around the couch and throw in a bit of stomping while they were at it. I laid there for at least 5 minutes trying to just ignore it. In my head I kept repeating the mantra “Yell Less, Hear More…Yell Less, Hear More…Yell Less, Hear More” Then I asked Hubby could they PLEASE stop. His response: “Why we’re just playing?” Huh Whaaa? I felt like it was a conspiracy. Then he took them upstairs I guess to try to appease me but that was even worse because it sounded like a herd of elephants running around. I felt the heat in my face. I was getting tired a frustrated.
I sat up and yelled (at the top of my lungs):
“STOP RUNNING!!!! YOU ARE NOT IN A PLAYGROUND!”
The Kiddies came downstairs and said we’re sorry Momma we were just playing with Daddy. That’s when the guilt hit. I know I could have handled it differently but I think we all could have. Honestly I could have pushed past the migraine or taken some meds and joined in on the fun. Yet at that moment, my impending migraine only added to the stress of the situation. Yet, I still yelled. Loudly. So, if you take a look at my Countdown Clock I have set it back a day. I wasn’t raging but I did snap.
I am determined to continue this challenge and a setback is just that a setback.
So…364 days to go…and guess what? I can STILL Pick My Nose! LOL
“Believe in yourself, your passions, and your dreams. Your voice is unique - build on that. Embrace what is different about you and make it your greatest asset!”
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8 thoughts on “Yell Less and Hear More: Update”
None of us are perfect. We are all fallen. We do the best we can and learn from our experiences.
When you are learning to be a gentle parent, it's not easy at first. Soon, it will be like second nature.
But always…always you have to forgive yourself first, and then offer a heartfelt apology to the kids. A sincere apology goes a long way. The kids know that you are human and you make mistakes and it's okay.
Just my 2 cents.
Thanks so much for linking up with us at Mommy Monday! I love the post!
Thanks. I did say Momma was sorry and they understood. Kiddies are so forgiving. I'm doing so much better using my 'inside voice' now 🙂
Thank you!
Interesting challenge. I wish you good luck with it!
p.s. I can totally understand though how you felt – an impending migraine… hate it…
Thank you… Doing better day by day (the yelling and the migraines 🙂
How late was it last night? I would have sent them all outside! haha
It's hard for people to understand migraines if they have never had them, hard to understand when you can't SEE the hurt.
LOL…it was dark out and down here the mosquitoes are vicious! LOL Exactly. Dr is playing around with my meds and it hasn't been a good past couple of days.
I had mine today. My 12 yr old was being extremely annoying and I yelled at him to go to his room. Gotta reset for me. I didn't even last an entire 24hrs. 🙁
I only made it a little over that so don't feel bad. I'm consciously trying though so i think that matters…and obviously you are too. I think it will get easier the longer we are trying. 😉