What with mother's day, and library visits and book groups (thank you, wonderful folks, who have hosted me in your homes - I've learned so much!), I've been thinking a lot about how although my parents (look of shock) weren't perfect, somehow they managed to teach me that I could do/be whatever I wanted to do/be.
My neighbor, a few years back, rolled down her minivan window as I walked the dog and baby in stroller (years back!) and said, tearfully:
"You tell them they can do anything they want, but I never expected my little girl would want to go to West Point!"
They adjusted, and so, I hope, will I, to whatever passions my children choose (or whatever passions choose them), as long as they don't hurt anyone else.
But meanwhile, I'm doing my best to teach them -- it's okay for boys to think American Girl Dolls are cool; it's okay for girls to love sports -- cliches, for sure, but true.
Remember Free to be you and me? William wants a doll?
This week's writing topic: Make a list: what I want to teach my children. Choose one and write about it for 22 minutes. Go.
Well I think this is a great exercise to help a writer wannabe get started. I have always wanted to write but get stuck sometimes just trying to come up with a title. I have learned many of the rules and writing has become fun and not a chore. I will have to try this one and write for 22 minutes-- I have four kids though so I may write a lot longer than that :-) Thanks for the lesson.
Posted by: Terie | May 27, 2008 at 07:39 PM
Go Terie, go! 4 kids! Write baby, write!
Thanks for the comment.
GG
Posted by: Gwendolen Gross | June 10, 2008 at 10:55 AM
I teach my kids to clean up after themselves. Generally when I sweep the floor, I ask them to make the bed. I dust while they mop. This way they can at least learn how to keep the environment clean.
Posted by: Dazy | February 21, 2009 at 06:47 AM