Say "I Love You"

When I was growing up we had a very close loving family. I knew I was loved and supported, but we rarely said the words, "I love you'. When my mother was diagnosised with terminal cancer we found these words easy to say for the first time. Now my father and sisters say it to each other and to our children and grandchildren. It is just ashame that it takes something like illness to see the importance of telling people you love them. I'm not saying use the words until they are almost mechanical, but using them to really express feelings and emotions. Our children need hugs and to hear the words, "I love you", so they learn how to express true feelings of emotions. Why not tell your loved ones today that you love them and there will be no regrets!

We Need Responsible Youth

We must teach our children to be responsible. So many times children get to school and don't know what it even means to be responsible for their actions, personal items, or school work. Some parents are doing too much for their children and handicapping them. Kids should have chores that they are responsible to complete in a timely manner. Demonstrate the expected chore and how it is to be completed. Appropriate consequences and rewards should be attached if those chores are/ are not completed in a satisfactory manner. Let your child complete homework and reports as independently as possible. Make them responsible for the grades they receive. It will make them a better student and adult. So, start today and let your child have some responsibilities. They will thank you later.

Take Care of Yourself

In this busy world it is easy to forget to take a little time for yourself. You need to refuel and fill up your tank to keep driving down the winding roads of life. Many people don't realize how they are riding on empty. In order to be the best person, spouse, parent, friend, and worker you must spend a little time by yourself. Reflecting and growing personally. Why not meditate, get a manicure or pedicure, listen to soothing music, take a walk in nature, curl up with a good book, or go to the hairdresser and get a new style? Simply do whatever will fill your tank, just take the time and do it. Your children will see a more content and happy person and they will feel more at peace. What a wonderful gift to your family.

Some more ideas: start a small garden, take a class on something you really want to learn more about, learn to play an instrument, read or write some poetry, pull out the camera and take some photos of everything, paint a picture, or take up a new activity like golf.

Law of Attraction

Encourage Your Kids to Dream Big!

We must teach our children the principles behind the "Law of Attraction". What you think about (whether it be positive or negative) will happen. Give them a positive outlook of themselves and their future. Talk about their dreams and encourage them to dream BIG. Sadly, we often don't think big enough, therefore many of our children have no idea that everything is possible. The brain is like a computer and can only process what you put into it. So, safeguard what they see and hear. Put in trash get out trash, put in violence reap violence. Conversely, pour in love and compassion and grow little gardens of loving and compassionate kids. Expose them to the stories and lives of people who have achieved great feats in areas of their dreams.

Next, teach them to take ACTION toward making their dreams come true. No dream can become reality without action. They must study hard at school and develop all the skills needed to become the best at what they desire. Assist them in developing plans for achievement and encourage them to apply diligent effort towards their plans. Give your children the gift of attracting whatever their mind can conceive. Give them permission and help guide and support them to making those dreams realities.

Journaling

Encourage your child to start journaling. It is a way to improve written communication skills and an outlet for expressing internal feelings. Suggest they draw pictures to illustrate each entry. This will be treasured and could be shared forever. Why not make it a family project and journal together daily, weekly, or whenever possible. This is another way to bring you closer together and keep everyone up to date on what is happening in each others' lives. Journaling can be a life saver and eye opener. So, buy a small notebook and start journaling today and encourage your children to do the same and pass on a legecy.

Must Teach Your Children Service

So many times we don't appreciate the blessings we have. If you teach your children about serving others less fortuntate then themselves, they will appreciate what they have and develop a heart of giving. Look around your community and see the areas that can be improved and discuss it. Why not visit elderly neighbors, nursing homes, food banks, soup kitchens, housing shelters, etc. President Obama has asked each citizen to commit to serving their community and nation. We must start with ourselves, but don't forget to include your children when appropriate.

Man in the Mirror

When I look back over my life I can hear my mother's voice directing and encouraging me and my sisters. Now I talk to my children and grandchildren and I hear her voice coming out of my mouth. How can that be? You must remember that the things you say and do will be imprinted on the hearts and minds of your loved ones. Somethings you want to be sure to pass on to generations and somethings you need to stop now!!! Before you speak or act while dealing with your impressionable children, think about is this something I want to continue to my grandchildren and great grandchildren? Make sure you encourage, live by example, but most of all direct your children in love!