Mommy Moments
A Mom’s Advice for the New Year
By Pam Kresse
So I was struggling to write an article about how to make our children be more respectful of adults in this age of technology. I was trying to figure out how to make them look up from their cell phones and actually answer questions and have conversations again. And to be honest, I didn’t figure this one out yet. It’s just a whole new world – sometimes a dangerous one and sometimes an annoying one when children have all the information and entertainment in the world at their fingertips. So I (Krista Martinelli) was lucky enough to stumble on some words of wisdom from my friend and neighbor Pam. She shared this advice and I found it to be very helpful. I hope you do too!
In hopes for a sweet 2016, here is my version of how I try to manage my world today and advice for my teenage girls I dish out regularly. (Mommy-isms).
Be kind and brave – always. It’s a line from Cinderella; afterall we all have inner royalty.
Be loyal and trustworthy – always. But this should never translate into being a doormat. Anyone who betrays this has given us a gift of wise advice: Run far away.
Stay away from people who are pretenders and takers. They have their own agendas and making you feel good is not on the list.
Narcissists only have room for themselves and are quite pleased with their own companionship. Don’t choose them as a friend or lover. For it will be too crowded in any room with them.
Even if you are having a crappy day, smile. After all, you are living and breathing; sad/bad thoughts take away time from happy/good thoughts.
Believe in something. When considering how vast our universe is, we are all unique miracles. I am convinced we are not here by chance.
True friends show up in times of difficulty, not necessarily when things are easy.
Always choose quality over quantity in all you do whether it is selecting fruit, new clothes or friendships.
Listen with your ears, not your mouth.
The truth is the simplest answer and will always reveal itself over time. Lies only cause pain.
Love and self-respect are what make us different from animals. Nurture it always.
A handwritten note in the mail is much sweeter than a text or email.
The art of conversation will become extinct if we don’t make an effort to show our kids how discussions really take place in a healthy manner.
The only place crap belongs is in the toilet.
Many teenaged arguments with mom can be resolved by just making your bed. Try your best to do the small things in making someone happy.
When my kids smile, my heart skips a beat.
Enjoy the time in the car with your kids. This is when you can have each other’s undivided attention. Soon enough they will be driving without you and you will miss this time together.
Lastly, you will have times in your life when the only one you can count on is yourself, so be kind and gentle to yourself – always.
Have a happy and healthy New Year everyone!