Parenting...What a ride!

There is a commercial on TV recently that simply says, "A baby changes everything." That is probably the understatement of the year; maybe the century. I know when we found out that we were expecting our first child, I had visions of how great it would be to hold my very own baby. My child. My offspring. My baby girl! Then, she was born and I held her. Words can not explain the feeling that brings to a Dad's heart. Having that new life in your hands is exhilarating! However, all the emotions in the world can't prepare you for the responsibility that awaits over the next few years. (To define a few...I'm still counting.)

Most of you are familiar with Dr. James Dobson. He is internationally know for his thoughts on raising children. I am hooked on one phrase that he promotes in many if not all of his instruction whether in person, a book or DVD. That is this, "You be the parent."

That is simply to say, you be the one in charge; you be the adult. Many parents are so intent on making their child happy that the lose all track of what makes sense. Common morality and common sense go out the window.

• One parent recently told me that her two year old got upset everyday about what clothes she wore. What?! She is two! If, IF, you give your two year old a choice, be OK with either choice. But you make the choice. Period. The first few days may be a challenge, but it is worth it.
• Another parent told me that their teenager refused to let them check their facebook, text messages or other techno info. Then don't provide them with technology! I was married with a child and working a real job before I had a cell phone and I made it fine. They will not stop breathing, I promise.

The point to be made louder and clearer than any is to discipline with love. Love your kid no matter what! Help them with the bumps in the road of life. Be consistent. Be loyal. Be loving. And yes, be the parent!

Now that we all agree on being the adult in charge of your child I have some bad news. Your child WILL make mistakes. My children have heard me say all their lives, "I will take the word of an adult first and until proven otherwise over yours. You may be mine, but you're not perfect."

The most appalling thing I have heard lately was when an adult observed a child in a compromising situation and thought the parents should know about it. In a loving attitude, they went to the parents of the child to inform them of their observation. They were met with blatant disbelief. "You are mistaken. Our child would never do that." How presumptuous and arrogant can you be.  At least get the details and check it out. You may prevent your child from escalating to a serious offense.

I may not know you or your child personally, but I can say with confidence that if you have children, they are not perfect.

At the end of the day, a baby changes everything. For the better in my case. Twice! I love my girls!!

I still say, love them, discipline them...all at the same time.