Dear girlies,
You know what the hardest part about parenting is… it’s that I’ve never done it before. I don’t know what I’m doing! I’m still learning about what it means to be a parent and you are still learning about what it means to be a kid. I’ve only been at this for 15.75 and 14.75 years… AND I’m a different mom to both of you because you have different personalities.
When I change my way of thinking and I remember that you are learning just like I’m learning, and that we’re just “doing life together”, I can just be your mom.
I don’t know what a parent of a sixteen-year-old is supposed to do, but I’ve been a 16 year old kid. I can remember what I needed and wanted at 16. I can tell you about when I “messed up royally” or the ways I succeeded and remind you that you are not alone. Plus, maybe by hearing what I went through will cause you to make a better choice than I did when I was your age. (You do know I was a teenager once?!)
I don’t have to have it all figured out. I’m not required to know what to do in every situation. I also need to remember that your choices are YOUR choices. Whether I agree with your decisions or your actions, it is your life. You will be the one living with the consequence or success. Hopefully, with Daddy’s and my guidance you will make more successful choices than dealing with consequences, but either way their dad and I will be by your side to help you walk through it.
The best thing about parenting? Well, that’s an easy answer…
…You girls.
Cowles Farm 