Out of the mouths of babes

I picked my ten year old up from school the other day and I could tell that things didn’t go his way that day. As we started the drive home he suddenly made a comment about a “friend” that wasn’t very kind.  I knew I couldn’t let it go, so I launched into one of my Mom speeches.  I have been doing this for 23 years so I had a  lot to choose from.  I told my son that just because you don’t agree with someone you don’t need to tear that person down.  You can simply choose to play with someone else, play alone or maybe even try and understand where that person is coming from.  My son contemplated this for a little while and then said “isn’t it sad that Mr Obama and Mr McCain’s mom’s didn’t teach them that rule.”  I realized right then that the television set need to be turned of until after the elections.

One of the trickiest thing about parenting is practicing what you preach.  I am sure my child could have put my name in there just as easily as Mr Obama’s or Mr McCain’s.

25th Wedding Anniversary

Today is my 25th wedding anniversary.  As I look back on these incredible years a lot of things amaze and astound me.  First of all that I have spent that many years with this man and still love him and respect him more each day is incredible.  Surely he will peak sometime soon.  I am amazed by him every day.  Wow, you say, what does this man do?  This man is probably not unlike many in the way that he leads his life in public. He is a hard worker, provides for and loves his family and unselfishly gives to the community.  All great qualities.  But there is so much more!  Most people who do all those things expect something in return.  Not my husband.  Just the fact that he can do those things is all he needs to be happy.  It is the most mind blowing thing for me to get my arms around that this man wants more for me and our children than we probably want for ourselves.

In a day when many marriages are throwing in the towel at this point.  I am so excited to say that ours grows stronger everyday.  This hasn’t happened by accident.  We have “bottomed out” a couple of times. Both times we can attribute to lack of communication.  We were just doing life and not really paying attention.  This happens to everyone.  The trick is getting back on track.  This takes time, effort, and a commitment to success.  Ours began with a cup of coffee every Saturday.  

I would be interested in hearing from others on how you keep your relationships fresh and moving forward.

I will continue our story tomorrow.  Have a great day!

Patrice