I’d rather...

I’d rather there were blue hand prints around the sink because we did painting, than a clean sink because we didn’t.

I’d rather the ironing was piling up because we’d decided to go out on a bike ride, than the pile was done because we stayed at home.

I’d rather washing up that seems never ending because we’d invited friends round for a last minute gathering, than there be no washing up because we’d played alone.

I’d rather there was flour all over the kitchen table and floor because we’d made biscuits, than a clean kitchen because we didn’t.

I’d rather the washing mountain kept growing with bedding because we’d had people to stay than the spare room remained empty.

I’d rather our clothes got wet and dirty because we’d been to the woods and jumped in muddy puddles, than they were clean because we’d stayed in the dry.

I’d rather the compost bin was overflowing with peelings because we’d cooked from scratch than an empty bin because we hadn’t.

I’d rather toys were all over the floor and a bit worn and tatty because they’d been well loved and played with, than in resale condition because they’d been ignored.

I’d rather there were blutack marks on the wall than unspoiled paintwork if it means my children’s art work is on show and they know I am proud of it.

I’d rather there were muddy dog prints in the hall and, despite constant hoovering, dog hair wherever you look closely, than a pristine floor but no soft ears to stroke or practical lessons everyday for my children in how to love and care for animals.

I’d rather my conversations and train of thought were often left unfinished than there was no one here to interrupt them.

I’d rather my children push the boundaries with me than don’t, so then they will know where the boundaries are.

I’d rather my children’s demands and tantrums take as long as needed to resolve, than my children learn that whoever is biggest or strongest always gets their way.

I’d rather my children ask the endless ‘why’ questions, than always accepting my first answer if it means they keep learning, including learning how to negotiate and compromise.

I’d rather my children question authority than always submitting to it, as sometimes authority needs to be challenged.

I’d rather we be friends with lots of people, even those whose views we often don’t always agree with, than stay in our comfort zone if it means my children learn about tolerance and that different doesn’t automatically mean bad.

I’d rather  my parenting was seen as weak and my house a disaster by those that judge me, than change my approach if it means my children keep growing up more physically, emotionally and mentally able to deal with all life will throw at them.