My Mom-ifesto

What I believe.

• I believe that it is my job to raise my daughters to be productive and happy members of society.
• I believe that it is important for them to know the value of a dollar, and work hard.
• I believe that they can wear princess crowns and tutus while learning how to change a tire.
• I believe that children who are over-indulged are not happy children.
• I believe that learning how to be told "no" and respond gracefully is an important skill.
• I believe that even young children need to have chores and responsibility.
• I believe that good manners are vitally important, even in toddlers.
• I believe that sticks and pinecones make the best toys.
• I believe that children thrive when given strict boundaries.
• I believe that within those strict boundaries, flying can occur.
• I believe that a blanket fort is the best place to be during a thunderstorm.
• I believe that being a parent is hard work, and laziness is simply unacceptable.
• I believe that Friday night should be pizza night.
• I believe that pots and pans and wooden spoons make great music.
• I believe that bedtime should never be a struggle.
• I believe that even toddlers can sit through a meal without being disruptive.
• I believe that it is my duty to teach my girls by setting them a good example.
• I believe that it is ok to have to do things you don't like to do, child or adult.
• I believe that tantrums are a learning experience.
• I believe that all children should learn how to keep house.
• I believe that children shouldn't be over-scheduled.
• I believe that there is always room for improvement as a parent.