Our first daughter Ava has been having a lot of episodes recently where she complains and talks back and whines. I've been trying to follow my husband's lead and jump on these instances of talking in ways that we don't want to talk to each other in our house. I've been really working on trying to catch her, to NOTICE when she's doing it (because naturally, I won't even notice it; I'll just reply), and being firm in my response.
Read MoreIdeal or horrible: perspectives on parenting typically fall into these polar opposite extremes. I do so much better when I acknowledge the reality that parenting is hard, while holding onto the truth that it's a gift.
Read MoreWhen I get too busy, I forget to look into the eyes of my children. It's sad when I forget. What my eyes look at tells my children what is important to me. Without trying, I can easily communicate that Facebook, email, getting dinner on the table, TV is more important to me than they are.
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