Hi! Remember me?

I cannot believe a year has shot by since my last blog.

Life…sigh…

I’m sure you can relate.

A few big changes have happened in our household. I started my own business and took a nice stack of courses to benefit me. Our household of 5 became 4 (sniff…sniff…) as the oldest has fled the nest and started a life of his own. And one more big change – my baby has become a teenager.

WTH?

We have somehow gone from the haywire s**t show that was managing babies and toddlers to the…well, let’s face it…it’s still a s**t show with teens. I guess the big difference is that in the midst of smelly diapers, misused crayons and spilled lego, there didn’t seem to be an end in sight. Now we are a mere 5 years from being parents of adults and proud owners of an empty nest (theoretically).

Cheers!

There are several key values to instill in our boys as we get them ready for the world.

First; we are the manner police. I get compliments on their manners constantly. And although I’m proud (and I really am) I honestly think that it’s sad how good manners stand out so much.

Our aim is not to just have polite children. I want them to understand how much farther someone is willing to go for you when you are courteous and kind. When you show authentic gratitude for another person’s actions. And how a simple ‘I’m sorry’ can turn around a situation.

I want them to understand that good deeds aren’t always followed by praise – that isn’t why we do them. We all have a responsibility to leave the world better than we found it. Even if it’s just holding open a door for a stranger or giving someone your bus seat.

We also want them to understand that no one ‘owes’ them anything. The world doesn’t owe them opportunities, or large pay cheques or easy paths. You aren’t entitled to start at the top. Hard work, risks, choices – that’s where life is born. Earn it! Do it! Experience it! Don’t be afraid to fail! Your integrity isn’t just an asset to an employer. It’s a gift to yourself. Leaving a day’s work knowing that you did it well for no other reason than it feels good do know you did a good job.

And;

We want them to fill their lives with people who care about them. I had a conversation with my 15-yr-old recently about the quality of friendships, and the importance of reciprocity. People come and go. Some friends are better than others, but ask yourself; does that guy have my back like I have his? Would be jump in to help me if I was in trouble?

And this goes their relationships with girls.

As much as I expect them to be courteous and caring with the ladies in their lives, I want them to choose partners who will respect them back. How do these girls treat their friends and families? How do they talk to/about strangers? Do they have interests and passions of their own? Do they respect your interests and passions? These things matter. Please treat your gal like a queen. But she should be treating you like a king.

At the end of the day, after we’ve done our best to mould upstanding citizens, we just really want our kids to recognize life for the adventure it is. Work hard when you are working, but play hard too. Contribute to your community, but go out and see the world. And while they are out exploring the world, finding their place and enjoying the wonderful people in their lives, we don’t want them to forget to come home and tell us all about it.

Ttys ❤