In answer to the title of this post....sometimes.  Why is it that I have the tools and knowledge how to get through a "test of the boundaries" from my kids....but then forget it when in the trenches?  Interesting.  I've been giving this a lot of thought because when I remember these tools....things go so much better!

My ds (7) loves to constantly push the boundaries...test them.  More like an out and out assault on them.  My dd (5) does it too but not to the extent of my ds.  All three of my kids are "strong-willed children".  Which I think is a good thing....for later in life.  Not so good right now.

Admittedly, things are improving due to the magical word "consistency"!  Routine, and consistency are the keys to a smooth day around here.  I love love love the days when things so smoothly and the kids obey and do their best (which is all I ever ask for from them).  It's just like instant joy fills me up.  Then there are some days that it doesn't go so well....and it's not joy that's filling me up!

I guess homeschooling is like a marriage.  There is a lot of work, prayer, communication, prayer, diligence, prayer, consistency, prayer commitment and prayer!

The main thing is that we have the time to work on this.  We have all the time we need!  That's the wonderful part!  To me character training is one of the most important things we can teach...but more on that later!

>^..^<