Mom with her roses - 1973

Anyone who has been a mom knows it’s a tough job! Some days you want to hug your children tight, and other days you want to take the first flight out of town to get away from them. Since I reserve Friday posts for interviews with friends, I thought I’d ask a few questions of a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother – my mom.

Q: What’s the most important thing a mom can do for her children?

A: Love and support them. Teach them Godly values and to believe in themselves and to love others.

Q: What’s the biggest mistake mom’s make with their children?

A: Trying to be their friend instead of their parent. Not setting boundaries to keep them safe.

Mom with her pride and joy - her kids!

Q: What are your top three tips for moms?

A:           
1) Listen to your children and believe in them
2) Sing and read to them and play with them
3) Educate them by example. Be a role model.

My mom was a room mother, accompanying us on field trips and planning class parties. She (and my dad) came to every concert, ball game and track meet. Our yard was always open to neighborhood kids. We have tons of fun memories of camping, water-skiing, and music (lots of music!). All three of her children and six grandchildren are well-adjusted, productive adults. Even though she’ll celebrate her 80^th birthday this August, she’ll still drive anywhere to take care of any one of us. My mom wasn’t, and isn’t perfect, but she’s a mom with *finesse and I’m glad she’s mine!

My parenting finesse level: 
Novice     Advanced beginner     Competent        Proficient        Expert              

What’s your parenting finesse level?

*finesse (skill, flair, grace elegance, poise, assurance)