my experiment

I think I have talked before about Sebastian's addiction to TV.  I know I have.  Ad nauseum. 

I was recently inpsired by a blog I came across.  This woman tries to live as simply as possible, keeping life simple and basic.  She has no tv in her home, her children play with simple toys and the driving force of their play is imagination.

I have been very frustrated for a long time about the mess and clutter in my home.  The kids have so many toys.  They are everywhere.  Try as I might, I can't get them organized and it is a never ending battle, a battle that I am ultimately losing.

Through this blog, I found a book that I am going to read- 2 books actually.

Simplicity Parenting - “This book is a wake-call for all of us who have misjudged what children need and can handle, and who have wandered so far from the best practices that we are raising neurologically damaged and emotionally stunted human beings as a result. Simplicity Parenting arises from dialogues with real people, from their questions and their needs. Kim John Payne is sharp, funny, and wise, and–best of all–he has something shattering but positive to say to an America that is struggling to know how to live."

Last summer, we were scheduled within an inch of our lives.  I have learned a lesson, or at least, I am trying to learn.  This year, I am trying to let my kids be kids.  I let them get dirty every day, I am trying to not spend money, but rather spend time and effort and emotion on my kids.  I hope it is working.  I think this might be a good help. 

Who would you be if you felt at peace and had more time and money? An organized life enables you to have more freedom, less aggravation, better health, and to get more done. One Year to an Organized Life is a unique week-by-week approach that you can begin at any time of year.  Master time management. Make your kitchen efficient. Permanently organize closets and drawers. Deal with your finances. Reclaim “dumping grounds” like the guest room, garage and basement. Declutter the kids’ rooms. Organize your travel plans-and the vacation photos and souvenirs. Entertain with joy. Whether you’re living in chaos or just looking for new ways to simplify, this essential book will help you get the whole household organized-and stay that way.

 

My sister in law has offered to help us with this.  And when I am ready, I will take her up on that. 

 

My big experiment however revolves around the TV.  I am removing the TVs from the kid's rooms.  I know, I know, judge me all you want.  Both kids have a TV and DVD in their room.  Maybe that makes me a bad parent, but whatever. 

 

Starting tomorrow, I am taking the TVs.  I am anticipating this will be very difficult for both of them, but moreso, for Sebastian.  This may sound silly, but the basis of his life right now is TV.  He loses sleep over it, he obsesses over it.  If we go out, he wants to come home to watch TV.  He has gotten out of school, playing sick, just so he can come home and watch.  He doesn't watch live TV, but his movies.  With 80-90%of his focus on his TV, I know that this change is going to be very difficult for him.  But, we are going to try.  I think we have to.

 

So, wish me luck, keep your judgements to yourself!! :)

 

Rosie N. Grey

The N stands for "new world order."