Dear Madigan,
Just a little story that I want to remember...and which a busy life will make me forget unless I chronicle more!
So today, after school, we played Toy Story Yahtzee...currently your favorite game, and one which we play at least three times a day. The benefit of this is that I too love games and you desperately need to learn the art of losing! We actually have two sets- a new one you got for Christmas from Nana & Papa, and a gently worn one from Alex & Erin who have moved on to the original numbered version. One is here at our house, and one is at Grandma & Grandpa's house so that we can share the love!
Today while playing, I got a Yahtzee, so I gave a generous shout of victory...a 'WooHoo,' if you will. You told me I had to say Yahtzee, so I said 'Yahtzee.' 'No!' you said. 'Say it like you mean it!' And so I did. Apparently I finally said it to your liking, as the game went on and you beat me...although I should point out that I won the first game- just in case anyone's keeping score.
It's a hard concept. Everyone wants to win and gets excited when it happens...but we've also started emphasizing the 'it's no big deal...better luck next time...give it another go' attitude. In fact- we've even started quoting Elephant from Mo Willems' books. "It takes skill. It takes practice. It takes skill AND practice!"
Case in point- this past Sunday we took the training wheels off your bike although Daddy wasn't initially convinced it was a good idea. We'd been talking about it...and you'd already tried it last Fall but had requested them to be reattached. Now was as good a time as any to try again. So Daddy removed the trainers and we sent you on your way. After a few good tries, a few minor spills, a few whines, and a few tears, you had it mastered...but only after one full-fledged meltdown. And after dusting yourself off, you quoted Mo Willems'. We are so very proud of you Madigan. You are learning the arts of patience and perseverance...characteristics I hope someday to master too. Love, Mom
