"Be Kind for everyone is fighting their own battle."

Let's be real, even though I am birthing my first born in seven weeks, I have learned the hard way...parenting is hard. I am blessed to be the stepmother of an eleven year old little girl and for the last three and a half years and have tried the best I can to be a good mother to her. We have full custody with next to no supervision from her biological mother, so it's been her dad for most of her life, and then I joined the party years ago.

For the most part we have the same challenges as most families with a few extra bumps that are manageable, because frankly, its hard to have a mom who doesn't have her daughters best interest in mind.

So here's my experience and observations from personal to my occupation as a teacher and my role as a stepmother....

- Love unconditionally...its hard sometimes I get it. Kids screw up. They push your buttons. They make mistakes, help them learn from them. Make them responsible for their actions.

- Be there for them when they fall down. They will fall down for the REST of their lives...don't give up on them, but allow them to make the mistakes...hovering or "protecting" them does no one any good. They need to fall down, take a step back, give good advice if they ask for it, if they take it great, if not, love them anyway. You are suppose to be their rock. You don't have to agree with their decisions, but don't distance yourself from them because they make a decision you wouldn't.

- Teach them manners, respect, and to love everyone. Reinforce that with actions. If you teach them to love everyone then continually talk mad crap on people...do you really think that is beneficial? Actions speak louder than words. And when you think they are making mistakes, trust that you taught them right.

- Teach them to love to read. A good book is a dying trade. If you want a curious child full of adventure and wonder to be able to explore the world, give them a good book. It takes them to lands they have never been before and adventures they have never considered. Plus that, if the power is out, internets down, etc...nothing is stopping them from picking up a good book and reading by candlelight.  

- Take them on adventures. It maybe to a new park, a concert, a landmark, a historic experience, etc...allow them to see the world...it will not only broaden their horizons but help them experience different people, cultures, and give them new experiences.

I'm sure I am missing many major things...however...these are some of the basic things that I hope to give to my unborn son. He must be pretty satisfied with this because he is kicking the heck out of me while I type...I'm sure these are kicks of excitement! I am so thrilled to be this little guys momma and can just do the best I can for him. Luckily my husband has the experiences and knowledge that he can give me...it's nice to have such a supportive environment and loving man.

As long as I don't find my child doing this.....

I think we might make it.....

Until next time....