A Few Things I've Learned in 18 Years of Parenting

Well seems it is New Years and my son has turned 18 today. I’m feeling a bit like 18 inside myself still, only about 101 in body. At any rate, I thought it rather fun to think of a few tidbits I’ve learned along the way in parenting. It’s been a rather wild ride. These are just a few off the top of my head:

1. As soon as a baby leaves the birth canal, people will begin giving advice
2. This is OK, as the baby is really not yours to keep, more like a loan and will grow up and be thrilled to talk about leaving you
3. Children are messy but fun, so play with them and immerse yourself in home-made play dough and finger paint because it feels so great
4. Little people deserve respect too
5. Generally children forgive easier than adults
6. Their honesty is delightful and a good example if channeled well
7. Children really teach us to share and that God provides
8. These little beings are another one of God’s powerful tools used to refine us so go with it and let your faith grow
9. Kids make one appreciate their spouse more as parenting is a hard job with no pay and hired help is expensive
10. At times, I have needed the story and lullaby just as much as my child
11. Parenting can get gruesome and is not for cowards
12. I will always have yellow rubber duckies in my tub no matter how old I get and I don’t care who knows as it is lovely pass time
13. People will tell you that your spouse and you must always have a united front on discipline and issues with the children-this is impossible 100% of the time and your children will know this
14. Kids are exceedingly smarter than people give them credit for
15. You cannot control what your children say and at times you will be mortified-do not be alarmed as this feeling will lessen over time
16. We may think we are teaching them, but they teach us just as much
17. Don’t get too upset about the stage they are in as they will soon change that
18. Take one moment at a time if you have to and don’t forget to *breathe*
19. Fingerprints on windows and doors can be dirty or cute, it depends on how you choose to look at it
20. My father was right in saying the older one gets the faster the time seems to go