September Editor's Letter

It’s not fair! Do you hear that often around your home? I think it’s heard on a daily basis in the Sarver household. And after those three words are uttered, you will hear my stock reply of “You are right, it’s not fair. Life is not fair and the sooner you get used to it, the better.” I have to admit that my girls come by this behavior honestly. I know that I said those same words to my mom and dad on a regular basis. As the oldest of six children, I encountered many injustices that I deemed unfair—and I made sure to bring it to my parents’ attention.

I fully expected “sibling rivalry” to rear its ugly head in our home as we raised our girls. What I didn’t expect was the frequency with which I find myself having to settle a squabble. I’m also often surprised by the issues the girls bicker over—important to them but, in my book, rather small. Who gets to sit next to me at the restaurant? Who chooses the movie for the family to watch? Who pushes the button on the elevator? Whose folder should I look at first after school? Frankly, it’s enough to make my head spin and, on certain days, it really tries my patience.

To help combat the issue of “it’s not fair” and “she always gets to go first,” I’ve instituted a daily rotation schedule. Simply put, I place the girls’ names on a calendar for every weekday. If it is Ally’s day, then Ally chooses the movie, sits in the prized spot at dinner, gets to be the first person in through the door and so on. Then, the next day is Tori’s. While it hasn’t solved every problem, it has helped. For even more great tips on how to deal with sibling rivalry, check out Hallie Sawyer’s article.

One of my favorite things about fall is the return of pumpkin flavored treats. My most anticipated is the Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks, but after reading about all of the other terrific pumpkin treats available in Kansas City, I’m going to branch out and find a new favorite spot and a new favorite fall treat. Let me know what pumpkin treats are must-haves on your list.

Enjoy the month with your family!