I've been a mom for 10 years and there's still so much to learn. Everyday brings new challenges and the kids are constantly offering a fresh outlook on regular things. My boys are at the age where they are always coming up with interesting questions.
Why is Area 51 a secret?
How did you get your seizures?
What is a flash flood?
Why is the government so demanding?
Is there going to be a tornado?
Why are the winds swirling?
How do sharks communicate?
Questions followed by questions. Suddenly an endless amount of curiosity is spinning through my world. I love it but at the same time, there's a lot of pressure to give them good answers.
I tell myself, "...don't explain it too much...explain it a little more... they won't understand that... that's a loaded question." Some of the questions are answered with my favorite, "That's a good question for your Dad."
With every question answered as simply as I can, but with enough explanations they can really understand the concept.
My favorite questions are, "Will you red with me?" "Can we check out the garden?" "Mom, do you want a hug?"
I don't know exactly how to raise little boys. I've never been a mom to a 10 year old before. There are so many times when I've felt completely in over my head. The boys are wrestling on the floor. When do I draw the line? They are starting to bicker more. When do I step in and stop the argument?
It's the truth, I really don't know how to be a Mom to boys. It's a completely new world. A world of wrestling and racing. Each day I'm learning how to love them, respect them, encourage them, challenge them, and teach them.
To be a parent is to be student to life. We're constantly learning our limits. We're adjusting our tones, and biting our tongues. We cry with our children. For real, sometimes we encourage our kids to be strong in difficult situations then we secretly cry and pray for our children.
If I can leave you with a thought to think on its: there is no such thing as a perfect parent. Instead just be flexible to respond to the needs of your kiddos and humble enough to apologize first. Be patient with yourself. Parenting isn't about perfection. It's about being there for your kiddos. Protecting them, loving them and nurturing them as they find their perfect place in this big world.
