Now that we’re nearing the end of the year, it’s time to cleanse my soul of all most of my transgressions this past year. I am certainly not perfect and the following admissions will attest to that.

I have been known to buy toys in the 3+ age group for my 18-month toddlers.

When I forget to wash their face before we head to daycare in the morning, I have been known to give them a “spit shine” before we get out of the car.

I have invoked the “five-second-rule” when a key piece of food falls to the floor during feeding.

I have called TheMonk “Swee’Pea” and Swee’Pea “TheMonk”. I have also called Nutmeg “TheMonk” and “Swee’Pea”. I have also called my wife “Swee’Pea” (but, thankfully, not “TheMonk”).

When I haven’t brushed my kids teeth before bed I think, “These are just their baby teeth. They still have a do-over.”

One time, I knew TheMonk had a poopy diaper before we left for daycare and I pretended I didn’t know so I wouldn’t have to change it.

I once told TheMonk and Swee’Pea that their yogurt was “all gone” because I wanted to finish it myself.

Finally, I have told them I love them but the truth is, words cannot describe how I feel each and every time I lay eyes on them.

Aaah. That was very liberating. You should try it. Now, if you’ll excuse me, my kids need their faces washed.

You look in the mirror
and you like what you see
I can tell that you’re happy
’cause you giggle with glee

You smile with confidence
at that reflected little girl
Having yet to be influenced
by such a demanding big world

You study your eyes
and the curve of your face
You seem very satisfied
that all is in place

And as I hold you so close
I pray that you’ll always be
That girl in the mirror
that you’re happy to see

Not focused on flaws
or how much you weigh
But happy to be you
each and every day

So, please, little girl
don’t go wishing on stars
To be anyone but
the wonderful girl that you are

‘Cause when you get older
the greatest wish that could be
Is for you to love that woman
in the mirror you see

I am happy to announce that my November Perfect Post award – hosted by Petroville and Suburban Turmoil – is awarded to Chag over at Cynical Dad. I loved this post because, well, I see myself doing something like this in the very near future and while Chag implored me not to admit that we might be a lot alike, I’m afraid I see a lot of myself in this post. Anyway, I laughed and then I cried. Go on over and read his post about how he kept his kids heads warm while getting them to school on time.