Family First
One of the things I admire and respect the most about my Lenny is that he truly puts our family first. Truth be told, he's much better at making a point to keep in touch with our kids and make sure they know we're here for them - no matter what. With Lenny, family always comes first.
I've learned a lot over the years about family and just when I think I have it all figured out, we enter another phase in our role as parents. Lenny and I aren't quite empty nesters as our son hasn't truly left home - he's just off at college. Our youngest daughter is in the Navy and we really tell ourselves that it's just like being away at college, only she doesn't get to come home as often and sometimes "college" takes her away on a ship around the world. Literally. Otherwise, it's just like being away at college. Really.
We are a blended family, but we've been together so long, we don't feel like a blended family. Regardless, my Lenny always puts the needs of our family first. He's always thinking about our kids and what he can say or do to help them on their journey. There is a fine line though. We don't believe in enabling our children to foster bad habits and we'll be the first to take a stand for what's right - even when it's not easy. Did you catch that? It's not always easy to be a parent (actually, it's hardly ever easy), but if you really want to do what's best for your children (regardless of their age), you'll be a parent first and a friend second. The above picture is a quote from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire when the wise Dumbledore tells Harry, "...we must all face the choice between what is right and what is easy."
I'm just wondering though, does there ever come a time when we as parents are worrying, wondering and wanting the best for our children? The older I get, the more I realize I knew nothing about being a parent when I was younger. Nothing. I winged it. The whole thing. One thing was certain, my family always came first. Putting your family first doesn't mean neglecting yourself. Quite the contrary, because if you're not taking care of yourself, how are you going to take care of your family?
I'm still not sure exactly the role Lenny and I are supposed to have in our children's lives. We didn't get any blueprints nor did we receive an instruction manual. We do know that today is all we have. There are no promises of tomorrow and yesterday is long gone. So, whatever you do, put your family first and you won't regret it. I wish I could take all the wisdom my husband seems to have and put it in a book and give to each and every one of you. I'm not saying he's perfect or that he has all the answers, but I am saying he seems to have this parenting role all figured out and when he makes mistakes, he's the first to admit it. He puts our family first and I am eternally grateful.
Til next time...
P.S. - I've created a series of motivational posters, including the one above, especially for my Instagram followers. So, if you'd like access to any of my printables, please follow along on Instagram. You can find me here.
