How our children shape us?

I was talking with a good friend today about our children.  My children are the most fun loving, generous children you will meet.  However, they have been testing me on every level lately.  In talking with her it made me think "are they really testing me" or is this children?  Do I expect too much?  All of these thoughts go through my head.  We are a family of two working parents and we have to juggle all the activities, homework, familiy life.  This is kindof my topic before about slowing down but I also want to raise well adjusted, loving and hard working children.  I also love each of their spirits and do not want that to change.  We have been brainstorming ideas to do in our household.  One is no playing with friends during the week.  This is hard as the kiddos have a ton of great friends that live next to us.  However, I have noticed that when they play after school, they are more irritable, rush through their homework and rush to bed.   The next is truly having family chores we do consistently and not just when Mom says something.  Lastly is introduce Sunday family day.  I saw this on a blog and loved it.  We will have baseball interferences but maybe we can use that to go on a picnic after the tournaments or go swimming together as a family. 

Food for thought on a Monday!! Eye Candy below which you know I love....


Unknown picture source.  Love the colors, bed, mirrors on nightstand.

 Love the French range.  Seriously thinking I would like this over jewelry...

Jenny Wolf picture.  Like the doors on the track, windows, chandeliers...

Of course, my little Reese.  Got her soccer pics in the mail and this is one of my best eye candy...

FYI-my Grandma's antique desk looks awesome.  I am going to sand and was this week.  I had so much fun that I am now going to do a tray I have.  So easy and makes such a big difference in my room.  Just the perfect pop of color.