We all have certain ways we do things. I was surprised (once the initial shock wore off it was pleasantly surprised) to discover my friend Toni and her kids have a tradition of decorating for Christmas the day after Halloween.

What?

That just seemed so wrong. I mean, this isn’t Walgreens. Why do it? But you know what? Once I let go of my conventions of “the way things should be” I got into it. I mean, I LOVE Christmas, so why not celebrate it even longer?

Another convention I need to let go of: keeping holiday decorations from 40 years ago and not buying new ones (thanks Mom for that). It never occured to me that you could just keep buying them and even – gasp – throw out old ones!!

If you’re not born a good mother in your own definition, is it possible to become one?

I don’t think being a good mother is making organic brownies from scratch every day, and being president of PTA. I think being a good mother is not taking it personal when your kid pushes your buttons. Not wanting to do something bad when that happens. Not wanting (or doing it) to cry every single night after a meltdown. Not wanting to be in a perpetual state of frustration.

Is it possible to change the fundamentals of motherhood when that’s what they are?

I read Max The Sneetches tonight. It’s a classic tale of discrimination broken down to the level of a child. Good story. I keep thinking the McCain people who are so upset about Obama winning could stand to read the story.

On another note, hubby being out of time for indetermined period is wearing on me. I’m trying to be strong, but Max and I are butting heads like rams. As soon as things have been running smoothly for an hour or so, he gets belligerent and ends up in time out with my blood pressure sky high.

Should I get therapy? I don’t feel like I’m dealing with this well. The hub says we’re both struggling for control. I say a 4 year old doesn’t know what control is, so why does he want it? Either way, it doesn’t provide a solution. Reeeeallly makes me think twice about having another.

I want a kitten. At least then I know what kind of bad they’re going to do. And they’re babies so you have to forgive them.