It can be a GOOD Thing we can’t Change our Kids

I can get as frustrated as the next parent that my children will not just settle down and do what I want them to. After all, I just KNOW that I often know what is best for them and I am convinced that if they would just listen to me and change—they would be happier individuals. I could save them so much pain and suffering. Of course, I imagine that my own mother probably felt the same way and parents have been trying to steer and change their children forever. There must be a reason that we really cannot change … Continue reading

Skipping Out on the Awards Ceremony—Allowing Them to be Who They Are

We received a notice in the mail inviting us to attend an end-of-the-year awards ceremony at my eldest daughter’s high school. Despite what you might think, she was NOT happy about it. In fact, it stressed her out. The letter didn’t tell us what the award was for (I don’t understand the anxiety-producing thought process behind that one) and it was nerve-racking for her not knowing what to prepare for. This, of course, is in the midst of her trying to wrap up all the other loose ends for graduation. I was ready and willing to go, but she was … Continue reading

What Makes Your Child Amazing?

Any parent of a child more than a week old knows that kids can be challenging. When we turn to our friends and talk about life as a parent, we have a tendency to talk about the horrors and the challenges since we really want some help and support. Add to that the fact that as our kids get older, it becomes less and less acceptable to “brag” about what amazing and fabulous kids they are—especially since they can also be crabby and flawed human beings. I thought it might be fun to take a moment this evening to think … Continue reading