Family + Parenting

Of all the things in my life, the part that gets the most commentary both positive and shocked is my parenting style. I’m the first to admit I can be eccentric. You could also call it “vintage” or “retro”.

I have high expectations for my kids. Shoot- I have high expectations for YOUR kids. Children are people. People in training. Assuming there is training being done.

Nearly a decade ago, I had a “aha” moment when it came to parenting. I had several things on my gripe list. So many things I “hated” that they were the way they were. May it be attitudes of entitlement, or not cleaning behind themselves, or apathy, or too much screen time. Then one day I realized I could change it all. I am the mom! I can’t control everything but I can control what is allowed in this house. I am a firm believer in what you put up with you end up with. I believe I’m setting my kids up for success in life by making my expectations clear.

My bars are high – but the kids rise to meet them. My honest to God hope is that I am creating people that are confident in their abilities and know they are enough. That if I die tomorrow I will know I’ve done all I could in the time I had to equip them for their lives. I don’t take this mothering gig lightly. It is my highest honor. I believe that when God blesses you and entrusts you with lives, you don’t take the easy way. You get up and you do it right.