You Are Doing a Good Job.

Last night, Anton and I…

…made funny videos and ate ginger cookies. Afterward, he put his pajamas on, and I gave him an extra-long cuddle because he’s had a hard couple weeks — friend stuff, school stuff, you name it. I wished I could hold him in my arms all the time; or wave a magic wand and make everything okay.

Then I got into my own bed and stared at the ceiling. Parenting; it’s not for the feint of heart.

Sometimes I walk around, and everyone seems to have it together. Families glide down the sidewalk with giggling toddlers and chatty preteens. But then I actually talk to friends and neighbors and everyone’s dealing with something. Remember that old saying? “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” My friend, who is a child therapist, says her inbox is full.

Anyway, all to say: YOU ARE DOING A GREAT JOB; YOU ARE A GOOD PARENT WHO IS TRYING. A reader once said, “Bless you, new moms. If you’re trying, you are doing a great job.” And I think that is true for parents of kids of all ages. I don’t know who needs to hear it (other than me!) but I’m giving you a pat on the back and sending a hug and gazing at you with admiration. I love you. xo

P.S. Home as a haven, and what makes your child laugh?