Sparky- I think recognizing that kids need to be bored sometimes is really awesome. I totally agree that it forces them to use their imaginations and find way to entertain themselves.
North- I think you've got a great perspective on prayer. I don't pray often, but when I do, it's almost always "God, help me to...". I know I can ask for strength to do what I need to, but he's not going to do it for me. Your post really describes a lot of stuff that hit me in the early months too. It takes some time to process and accept our drinking past and then move forward from it.