No More Clapping

I've got my voice back which means there's no more clapping in my house. It all started during my tonsilectomy recovery. I could barely talk so when I wanted to get someone's attention I would clap forcefully. It worked for a couple of weeks. After hearing the clap, my husband and three children would look over at me to see what it was I needed. Okay. They would also laugh. I probably looked and sounded ridiculous.

As a result of having no voice, there was also no yelling. I wouldn't say that I yell a lot but, at times, a raised voice is the only effective tool I have when dealing with three children under the age of seven. I have to admit I liked not yelling. It's hard to explain but, for some reason, I felt empowered by my controlled voice. When things got crazy and the kids were crying or fighting about something I just waited until they were done and then asked quietly what was wrong. Usually, I would raise my voice and get angry. You know how it goes. So, even though I've got my voice back I'm going to try this new strategy. Does that mean I'll never yell again? Yeah, right. (sarcasm) But at least before I raise my voice I'll contemplate whether it's really worth it.

Happy Monday.