I can't believe I've neglected this blog for over a year! For a few days I've been stewing over this idea of a post. To be honest, it's something I think about all the time. The issue? The way I choose to parent. Moving to the south has made me take a harder look at the choices I've made. Things 'round here aren't the same as back home. So here goes:
When we first moved to Pensacola I had a friend who was constantly correcting Kayla. She would get so irritated if she asked Kayla a question and the response didn't include a "ma'am". At first I asked Kayla to comply, then I dropped the "friend". You see, I'm not raising some mindless monkey. I'm trying to raise a good human being. I want kids who do the right thing because they know what the right thing is. They shouldn't make choices based on what they think my reaction might be. I want stubborn, opinionated, difficult kids. I'm not raising some blind rule followers, because sometimes the people making the rules are complete idiots!
That said, I can only think of two or three adults who have ever had a bad thing to say about my kids. My three little minions are excellent asshole detectors. They really ramp it up for a select few, and I let them! Their teachers adore them, always giving them A's for citizenship. They are respectful and kind. They are exactly the type of people I want them to be.
None of my parenting choices have been the result of laziness or indifference. My children deserve better then that. I have agonized over so many choices, and in the end I decided to follow my heart. I know I don't have all the answers, and I insist on surrounding myself with people who feel the same way.
Dear Kayla, I love who you are. It's not about the grades you get or the awards you win. You challenge me every single day and I wouldn't want it any other way.
Sweet Maddie, I know right now you're going through some tough feelings. I know sometimes you lash out at me because of that. Just know that I get it, I remember feeling the same way. You are such a sweet and kind person and I couldn't be more proud of you
My baby Eric, you aren't the easiest child to parent. I find myself completely frustrated on almost a daily basis. You are such an amazing kid. You make me laugh, and you give the best hugs. I have no doubt that you will do amazing things some day.
