Terrible Two Playdate

The terrible twos.....defiant, rebellious, and naughty.  Definitely undesirable behaviors - especially when we aren't at home.  Like at a play date.  Thankfully we have friends who are understanding and patient.  Even though Mara isn't always the best role model for these kiddos, my mommy friend keeps inviting us over!  I remind myself often that God gave my peanut a free will, and her current behaviors aren't a direct reflection of our parenting.

Disclaimer:  In case his dad happens to see this picture, he's wearing a "sweat band."  It may look like his mommy's hair band, but it's most definitely keeping the sweat out of his eyes while he shoots hoops!

Yesterday when we prayed before lunch, we asked God to help us be kind to others and told Him we were sorry for not being gentle to our friends.  Today before lunch we told God we were sorry for not using our manners at the library and asked Him to help us use them the next time we're there.  Our lunch prayer may end up being our repentence time for the next couple of months!  I know Mara doesn't really understand the purpose of praying yet or make the connection between my words and her behavior, but I know God was listening anyway.  Do you think it was a coincidence the following verse was part of my devotions today?  I think not.

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.  - Hebrews 12:11