*This post will be a series of posts, because I have lots to say about each point. But for time's sake, here is a brief list. Explanations to follow.
I think, as a mom, I get so bogged down with the idea that I have to be a "perfect parent" (whatever that means), and that if I'm not doing things a "certain way" (whatever that is), then I'm somehow failing my children. I'm a perfectionist, by nature, so I get bogged down a lot. A lot, A lot.
BUT
I'm giving myself a break. For better, or worse, here are a few things I am teaching my littles that require no comment, opinion, or approval from the Peanut Gallery, thank you very much. :)
1.) Some people really are creepy and it is ok to stay away from them.
2.) There is no Santa, Easter Bunny, Tooth Fairy, and no, you won't find any tiny little leprechauns walking down the street on St. Patty's Day.
3.) If you don't want to hug, kiss, or hold hands with one of your relatives, friends, neighbors, teachers, etc., then, by golly, YOU DON'T HAVE TO! More importantly, if you don't want them to do the above to/with you, then it is perfectly ok to say so, and you should.
4.) Eat dessert whenever you want. As long as you are eating healthy, nutritious foods throughout the day, cookies can totally be a breakfast food.
5.) There is a Heaven and a Hell, a Jesus, and a Satan, and one day you WILL have to choose whom you will serve and where you will spend eternity.
6.) Sometimes, the things you say and do really do hurt my feelings.
7.) Handwritten notes are always best.
8.) Time is one of the most precious gifts given to us by God. Don't waste it, squander it, forfeit it, or decline it.
9.) It is my job to be all up in your stuff, your face, and your life. That's what a parent does. And you have 2, so you might as well get over being mad about it!
10.) You can absolutely be anything you want to be, think anything you want to think, love anyone you want to love, and have anything you want to have. With the Lord's help, I hope to teach you boundaries, wisdom, and discretion that will help you make the best choices. But I will love you, regardless.
11.) You are not your past. Don't let it rule you. Let it change you and make you more equipped to face your future.
12.) Anything worth having is worth earning. We are not free-loaders, and we are not raising free-loaders.
13.) Parents disagree with each other. Parents argue with each other. Parents apologize to each other. Parents forgive each other.
14.) Some days, it's ok to skip chores.
15.) You don't have to good at everything. You don't have to be great at anything. You MUST try your best, always.
16.) We do not say the words "stupid," "butt," "shut up," or, "Oh my God." Many people (even grown-ups) will tell you it's ok, but you'll just get in trouble if you do.
17.) The correct words are penis and vagina. Enough said.
18.) You don't have to go to the doctor for everything. In fact, if you can find a good home remedy, try that first. Definitely stay up-to-date on shots and regular check ups, but treat medicines as last resorts. Otherwise, your immune system becomes dependent and you'll find yourself in many a waiting room.
19.) It's ok to act like a kid, sometimes, even when you're an adult. Enjoy life. Have fun. But be responsible.
20.) It's ok to eat pork, get a tattoo (if you can stand the needles!), and hang with other sinners. Be wise about it, and check your motivation. After all, the Lord looks at the heart.
Well, there you have it! :)
#17 is my favorite...I think it's ridiculous the silly-stupid names people come up with to not call it what it is. I mean, I'd rather my kid yell out "vagina" and embarass me than to yell out "moo-moo" and point at it when people don't understand what she's talking about, and people to then be completely bewildered by that!
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