My parents rationed my television consumption when I was a child. I was allowed tiny bites. Very occasionally. I remember sitting all together on Thursday evenings and watching, The Cosby Show. Sesame Street was allowed on an occasional afternoon but it was quickly changed to Little House on the Prairie as soon as my older sisters dusty shoes crossed the threshold on their return from school. I don't remember ever watching Saturday morning cartoons. I don't remember missing it either.
I spent my childhood reading, listening to stories on record (yes, record) and playing outside. Hour upon hour was spent building forts (with running water and rather large fires), climbing trees with branches that hung precariously over the Sacramento River, riding bikes on the levee, playing on the tin roof of one of the many sheds near our house, and pretending to be Indians by hanging tobacco (green leaves of some sort) and animal skin (grapefruit peels) out to dry. I loved every moment growing up television deprived on acres of land. Don't get me wrong. On the occasional evening when my parents would go on a date and leave my oldest sister in charge we spent most of the night with our eyes glued to the television. We also made sure to turn it off at least 30 minutes before their expected return because the moment my mom got home she was sure to touch the back of the television set to see it if was hot from overuse. True story.
Fast forward 30 some years and I have to admit that my children watch much more television than their mother or father did in their youth. When Matt was young his family had a TV and VCR just for watching family movies. In recent months, Matt and I have taken great strides to limit the amount of television our kids consume. We are not a "no T.V. allowed" household but we have moved toward being an "occasional show when the kids have earned them" household. This movement comes because we know the benefits of rationing television. The biggest in our house being more pleasant children who really enjoy each other and have imaginations that are through the roof!
Three years ago today I gave birth to a sweet baby boy at St. Joseph's Hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
ADAM SCOTT BARRON
It was amazing to see our family blossom from a family of three to a family of four. It was incredible to see Henry become a big brother.
It was remarkable to conceive, grown and meet a new child. The most amazing thing of all was discovering that this little boy was his own little person entirely. From birth he had his own look, a unique cry, and a distinct personality. And this fresh little soul brought out a bigger, deeper love in me.
Thank you Adam for the many ways you bless this family. Your laugh, your squeaky sweet voice, your fart jokes that drive me insane but are wise beyond your years, your gusto for tackling new challenges, your beautiful eyes, your smile with its missing front tooth, your love for your big brother Henry and little sister Claire, your willingness to help Dada in the garage and backyard, your love of cooking with momma and last but definitely not least your passionate rendition of "Holy, Holy, Holy."
You are all I could ask for and more. We love you Adam Scott.
