Saying Yes

I've always had a slightly permissive parenting style.  I prefer to pick my battles, so when I say "No", she understands it is for a good reason.  This doesn't lessen the blow of a "No" of course.  There are still the tears and tantrums, but I'm less likely to cave to her desires and she knows that.  However, when its an easy "Yes", a win-win if you will, then there is no battle to be had.

Sunday morning was a great example of this.  Leandra was bored and she wanted to do something.  She wanted to play, but just with me. "No Audras!" was her battle-cry.  I realised that the time we have had recently, just the two of us, had been sparse.  We were definitely due some big girl fun and silliness.  So I took a tired Audra upstairs for her nap. 

When I came back downstairs, Leandra asked if we could make cakes.  She asked in a way, that told me she was expecting a "No".  So I surprised and delighted her with a "Yes" instead.  I let her pick the cake flavour (banana) and I made the batter with her helping to pour the ingredients in and stirring the bowl.  This is something she hasn't been as interested in participating in recently, so it was nice to have her back in the kitchen with me.

Next I quietened the voice in my head screaming about the mess and batter wastage, and let her take turns with me filling the cupcake papers.  I'm not a clean freak by any means, but I get a bit antsy about mess when baking.  I realise this will never teach Leandra how to angle the spoon, or fill the paper evenly.  If I constantly step in, I'll be constantly stepping on her ability to do this herself.  So I stand back and praise when she gets it mostly in.

Once all the papers are filled, she asks if she can put the tray in the oven. My heart is in my throat.  She is 6 years old.  At some point she is going to have to operate this oven safely.  So I caution her on what not to touch and let her pull the oven door open and place the tray.  She is so careful and does so well.  But I'm fighting the urge to rescue her the whole 20 seconds that this is happening.  I say "well done" out loud. I'm pretty sure 80% of it was directed at her, 20% at me.

When they come out of the oven, I show her how to test if they are done or not.  We poke at them with our fingers and they bounce back to shape.  Then we make icing (lemon is requested) and wait for them to cool.  We then each take a small set of the cupcakes, the writing icing and a selection of lollies out of the cupboard and start decorating.  It's so much fun.  Each cupcake I do gets more and more elaborate.  I love being creative, and this was just what I needed.  Good, clean, artistic, fun. 

So much concentration

Inspection time

My treats. 

Some of Leandra's creations

Afterwards we share our cupcakes out to Audra and Doug.  Leandra selects the ones she wants each of us to eat.  I love that she really thinks about the person and what design they will like the best.  I like that she shows so much caring towards her dad and sister, and that she is proud of her work.  I like that I took the time to teach her some vital safety and baking tips, but most of all I liked the giggles, the cuddles and love that filled my kitchen on a rainy Sunday.  Thanks Leandra Panda for making my weekend so special XXX

Smile for the camera?

Silly Moore Girls