This is a great nitty-gritty portrayal of what it means to make sacrifices as a parent. I can remember important events I missed because my children were sick - the 40th b-day of a friend, the book launch of another - and countless other things. The thing is, the kids are going to grow up whether you're there or not. If you want to be there with them, you have to take the time to do it while they're growing up.

Discipline is most certainly king. Organizing the day around the kids' (and your) needs is the basis for a pleasant day.

Finally, fatigue also takes its toll. I am normally a very mild-mannered person and almost never lose my temper. This did not apply to the time when my kids were young. I often sensed rising rage inside and stopped for a moment to ask myself: "Whoa, what is wrong with me?!" The answer was almost always: I'M EXHAUSTED! This alone plays a huge role, which brings us back to - discipline. Better to leave a few chores undone and go to bed. Your kids care if you blow up at them but they won't even notice if the dusting doesn't get done.