Top Ten Things I've Learned About Parenting...

I don't typically post twice in a day, but today, I thought I'd make an exception!  I hadn't really planned on this, but I am linking up with Kelly's Korner, and am going to share a bit of my parenting advice!


Parents get a lot of advice.  Well-meaning friends, family, and people we see on the street stop to offer their jewels of wisdom, whether it is wanted, needed, or not!  Having been a Mama for 8 years, I've learned a thing or two along the way, with the help of others.  Today, I present to you my list of the top ten things I've learned about raising children.

1. No child has ever been spoiled by being loved too much.  Hug your children every chance you get.  Tell them you love them until they roll their eyes and say "I know mom!"  Embarrass your children by letting them know how much you love them.  Secretly, they are thanking you for it!
2. No parent is perfect.  Concede now that you will never do everything perfectly.  Do the very best you can, and trust that our perfect Heavenly Father will guide and direct you.
3. Don't be afraid to apologize to your children when you make a mistake.  They need to know we are human, too, and, it helps teach them humility.  
4. Be the person you want your children to become.  Actions really do speak louder than words when it comes to parenting.  
5. Its wise to encourage your children to push themselves physically and intellectually, but remember to let them be kids, too.  Playing with friends, (obviously, friends you know, and who's parents you know) is a part of childhood.  Being silly, and using one's imagination is apart of childhood.  Its over too quick; don't force them to be older than they are!
6. Be your child(ren)'s biggest cheer leader.  Even if it is the smallest of victories, turn it into a huge celebration!  If you don't let your children know how proud you are, they will seek that from someone else.  Knowing they are making you proud is what they truly desire.
7. Play, play, play!  Let your kids see you being silly with them!  Run around the yarn playing "tag".  Jump into the pool and splash around with them.  Sing silly songs and dance like no one is watching.  These are the things your kids will remember when they are older.
8. Sometimes, its OK to let your kids have cake for breakfast.  Especially the day after their birthday.  (Admit it...we've all let our kids have a piece of birthday cake for breakfast!)
9. Always, always, always show your kids a united front.  No, you may not always agree with what your spouse says, but don't contradict them in front of your kids.  Kids see more than we think, and if this is something they see on a regular basis, they will take advantage of it.  Pull your spouse aside, later, and discuss the situation, and come to an agreement there.
10. If you remember nothing else about this post, remember this: Pray.  Pray for your children, pray for your spouse, and pray for yourself.  Trust God to guide you as a parent, and remember that He is a true Father.  No one else on Earth will ever love your child like you do, but God loves your children more than you ever can.

Don't forget!  Only 10 more followers needed before I give away this awesome hand-knit, reusable gift bag set from 13 Plum Knitting!  

Be sure to visit SwagBucks!  Its Mega SwagBucks day!

Now its time to do some Language, Math, and history with my Little Flower before Little Man wakes up.  Be blessed, and have a wonderful weekend everyone!

~~Plum