letting your kid be themselves is the best way to go

We just spent a fantastic week together having the best kind of family fun. When you're in public, in large crowds or in close contact with others, you notice things. My kid is polite and well spoken. She is learning social etiquette and general life rules. She is also a teenager...

She has the best of intentions, but sometimes she says the wrong thing or does something embarrassing in public. Don't we all, though? That's a parent's job. We lead by example. We demonstrate. We guide and make corrections. Otherwise, how will they know? 

This whole week, my kid was aware of being on her phone in lines or in public. If we were checking out, she was ready and didn't make people wait. She paid attention and took it all in. She observed and asked questions. 

And, she rushed ahead or got bored and let us ALL know 😂. She did cartwheels through the parking lot. She country line danced while she waited for her pancakes in line. She was simply herself. Unapologetically her. And I love it. 

She is polite and gracious. She lets her freak flag fly and runs to her own drummer. She isn't interested in how the other girls are doing it. She just wants to be herself. THAT is all that matters to me. And we are so proud of her for it! 

when your kid wants to try new things, you go all in!

Both of my kids have always been very consistent in their habits, hobbies and beliefs. Not much seems to shock me any more. However... My kid came home last week and said she's making some changes. Just like that. Straight to the point. She had a plan and a back up plan already laid out. 

She wants to start a fresh path. She wants to try something new. She has new ideas. I love this! In the past, we have always mentioned camps, tryouts or activities that she always wrinkles her nose up to.

What does this mean? Summer camp! Or two! A trip to Target! Some choreographing of open gym times. New things are fun to think about and plan for.

I hope wherever this kid's plan takes her, she embraces it. I hope she thrives. I hope she makes new friends and memories. I am proud of her doing a reboot all on her own. We always encourage trying new things. 

Here's to having a high schooler. Here's to having a kid who can make her own plans. Here's to the future. Here's to growth, fun and adventure. Here's to my wallet, sanity and parenting to last and be the best! 🤣