"First this, then that." These words are out of mouth several times a day. It seems that too many "rules" lead to confusion, for both Liz and myself. So, I try to keep it simple. First, you eat, brush teeth, dress, etc. then you go outside. First, you eat healthy food then dessert. First, homework then a movie or nintendo.

I like this rule because it's reality, e.g., first I work then I get paid. It's the way the real world works (or maybe it's the way the real world should work). I must remind myself if I have a "this" I also need a "that".

"Make a wise choice"; this simple statement says it all. Liz, I know, is sick of hearing it. Unwise choices result in lost of privileges. "I need cooperation. If you cooperate we will go bowling tomorrow. If not, we won't. Make a wise choice." Choices have consequences, I want Liz to know this.

I was standing at the sink doing dishes this afternoon. Liz came up and hugged me, then asked if I would work a puzzle with her. I said yes, left the dishes and we worked a puzzle together. I am so, so sure I made a wise choice.