I don’t want to be that parent that criticizes and yells at my kids through sports games. The ones that are always riding their kids to try harder, do better, be faster. That parent that tells their kids what they did wrong or how they can improve. The parent that says “You did great, BUT…” You know those parents they think they are being “constructive” through criticism.

At the time I didn’t know Crew and I were talking about self care, but I think that is a great label. I spend time teaching my children about physical self care like brushing teeth and washing hands and eating healthy, but I need to talk to my children more about emotional “self care”. A stupid, crazy game on New Year’s Eve ended up being our perfect opportunity.

As Crew and I snuggled in my bed this morning, I brought up the topic of New Year’s Resolutions and suggested that we should set some family goals. His reply surprised me. He said, “New Year’s Resolutions are stupid. They only last for like one week.” When did an 8 year old kid get so skeptical?

I was immediately defensive. So, what? It is my fault my kids fight? Parents that have kids that don’t get along have taught them to hate each other — to be rude? Are you kidding me? I’ve done many a Family Night lesson on being kind to your siblings. We’ve read stories and scriptures and watched videos. I’ve yelled; I’ve pleaded; I’ve grounded. I have tried to teach my children to love each other and they just don’t!!!!

My least favorite parenting excuse is “I never did …… when I was a kid and I turned out okay” or “When I was a kid, I did …… and I am just fine.”   (Here’s a retro family pick just for fun.  I am the blond on the far right…

I thought I wanted to homeschool, but I wasn’t sure how to do it. I didn’t know what curriculum to use; I didn’t know if I would like it; I wasn’t sure how to schedule the day; I wondered how the kids would do. I worried about long term effects and short term logistics. I questioned my own patience, time, and skills. I just didn’t KNOW.