Circus

My children’s idea of the perfect Christmas card photo (evidence of my 3-ring circus)

In response to The Daily Post’s One Word Prompt “Circus,” I chose to write about my own personal 3-ring circus.

Each ring is represented by a very special clown in my life.

The 7 year-old ring is ruled by a beautiful, sweet, smart, and stubborn clown. She loves horses and making crafts and (like her mother) has a hard time with accepting her own mistakes. She is a one-woman-musical as well, always singing and dancing or making her own shows for us to watch.

The 5 year-old strong man in the 2nd ring is constantly playing a sport. From baseball and basketball, to kickball, or hunting, my middle ring is always running, throwing, and diving. He wears his heart on his sleeve and is easily saddened by mistakes or the minor tragedies of daily life (especially a St. Louis Cardinals’ loss).

The sword-brandishing 3 year-old clown in the smallest ring keeps us all smiling. His constant laughter and squeaky commentary on any and everything he sees makes each moment worthy of the big top. His obsession with Paw Patrol and swords is a bit exhausting but, hey, we all have to have a passion.

I often joke that I am brining my 3-ring circus with me when we visit friends or family or go to the grocery store, so I guess that makes me the ring leader.

As ring leader, I often find myself spinning in circles and praying for the ride to slow down. I think any parent or grandparent feels the same. We want our kids to be happy, successful, and growing, but we sure wish they could do it at a less frantic pace. Often we find ourselves walking tight ropes and dangling from the trapeze trying to balance our work and home lives. Don’t worry! You can tame this lion of a lifestyle.

If you get the chance today, take in a show of your own. Let your kids serve you at an imaginary restaurant or run a neighborhood lemonade stand. Play a game of catch or shoot some hoops. Dress up and have some imaginary tea. Attend a little league game or soccer match. Play a board game or blow some bubbles. Make a circus of your own or an in-home talent show. I guarantee the cost of admission is within your price range.

Take the time to enjoy what your little ones are capable of and you will be sure to catch a glimpse of the greatest show on earth.

By: Melanie A. Peters