We're saving for therapy.

I wish I could be one of those mothers who allows her child to wear whatever they feel like wearing on a whim. I’ve read that it’s great for their self esteem. My children will likely need counseling as tightly as I control their wardrobe choices.

I’ve been pretty lucky. Both of my kids like to “look nice.” Probably because I’ve never given them much of a choice; and partially I’ve just lucked out. Neither one of them has ever shown remote interest in wearing character shirts. ---Thank you Jesus! They’ve never asked for light up shoes.

Alex was thrilled beyond words a few years ago when I came home with a size 4 suit. Recently, Alex noticed S&K Menswear was having a sale and he suggested we take advantage of the “buy two suits, get one free deal.” When I scoffed he said, “MOM! HELLOOOO?! I’m in need of a new suit. Mine’s too small. What am I going to wear if I get invited to a wedding or someone dies?!”

Meredith will negotiate extra outfits while we’re shopping and can break my heart with, “They’re all just so beautiful. Do I really have to pick ONE?” It’s like “Sophie’s Choice” right in the middle of Gymboree.

As long as Alex and Meredith allow me to dress them, I’m going to. I know there will be horrible battles over belly shirts and holey jeans soon enough, but I’m filing away those anxieties with driver’s tests and “the talk.”

What I do encourage them to do, Meredith needs the least amount of encouragement, is to wear whatever they want around the house. For Alex this usually means a high water pair of jeans and a sweatshirt he’s had since he was four. Meredith is a little more “creative.” Her bedroom floor is almost always covered in tulle and sequins. Errant purple and pink feathers make our hallways look like a slaughter house for diseased birds. You just never know.

Brandon is home this week and I heard him say, “WOW! Meredith, that’s QUITE an outfit! Go show your mother.”

I agree. Can you imagine THIS answering your door?!