Grace, The Future Is Yours

The type of daughter I want to raise is strong. She's independent and outgoing, but knows how to be caring and considerate. She is confident, fearless and joyful.

My sweet Grace, the future is all yours. 

I recently read an article and watched a commercial that truly made me think about how I want to raise my daughter. The article talked about giving praise to your children. College athletes were asked what their parents said that made them feel great... the overwhelming response: 'I love to watch you play.' 

Read the whole article, "6 Words You Should Say Today."

My sister and I grew up doing swim team, playing basketball, volleyball, tennis and soccer. We were also Girl Scouts and collected tree frogs. My parents were supportive of our choices and could always be found cheering us on in the stands- home games and away games. For me, one of the greatest things about playing sports was the bond it created between my Dad and I. I  believe he truly loved to watch us play!

Senior Night for the Golden Sierra Grizzly Varsity Volleyball Team, 2003

I know I was lucky to have such supportive parents. That isn't always the case. There are so many nightmare sports parents. That's why I loved this article. It focused on connecting with your kids over something they enjoy. Instead of all of the added pressure parents place on their kids, let's just tell our kids/husbands/friends how happy they make our hearts. Ah-mazing! 

The commercial I recently watched is for GoldieBlox toys and features new lyrics and an empowering message for girls to the famous Queen song. The founder is fighting to get their building toys into the pink-filled aisles of Toys 'R' Us. I like the message and hope that my daughter will have endless possibilities to explore her interests without gender constraints. However, I question whether boys and girls need gender-specific toys. Does everything have to be pink or blue? At least the toy market is expanding and parents are catering more to their children's interests than to the norms of society.

What do you think? 

The First Day of School Means Summer is Over

Starbuck's Pumpkin Spice Latte is back and school is in session!

I am ready for the end of the sweltering southern summer heat and soooo ready for Fall! Although, honestly, this summer hasn't felt as hot as last year.

Baby Grace, who is definitely NOT a baby anymore, started school again at the greatest little place. She only goes one morning a week, but I love it! Four hours all to myself! I think it's important for Grace to spend some time away from me learning to share and catching other people's germs.

First day of school "MMO" 2013

In the past she would get pretty dramatic when I dropped her off. I had to un-cling her from me, crying and sobbing "Mama," while I scurried out the door. (Texts from her teachers proved that she immediately regained her composure after I left.) This year, she's an old pro. No tears. No last minute hugs or pleas for mama. She just walked right in and got to learning/playing.

I'm sure in her head she's thinking, "Wow, I'm really going to miss Mama, but this place is great. I'm so lucky!'

I love the excitement and anticipation that comes with a change of seasons. Right when I didn't think I could take anymore of the same old summer ho-hum, Fall is right around the corner like a hot tasty pumpkin spice latte.

Bring on the football (I'm playing in my first Fantasy League), the scarves and boots and the crisp cool nights. We are ready for Grace's second Halloween, and I'm dying to bust out our Elf on The Shelf!

A few things I'm not quite ready for include potty training, flying cross country with a dog and a toddler, packing for a move and dusting off the ole resume! In just a few short months we (my husband) are starting the process of getting out of the military. It's time to write a new chapter of our lives...

One last trip to Myrtle Beach before Summer is over

Wishing you all patience in school zones, a break from the search for your bikini body and a winning season for your football team! What's your favorite thing about this time of year?

First Day of school