Making Men Part of Your Parenting Network

    I have been enjoying several books about mothers, parenting and women's issues to continue gaining knowledge for my business. All of them have been wonderful and all of them have basically the same themes: Mothering is hard and we're not alone in the feelings that we have about mothering. Although I know both of these ideas very well, it's always reassuring to know that other women are feeling the same way about raising children. 

Since I began mothering 13 years ago, I have been growing a network of individuals who have supported me and let me know that I am not alone in raising my children.  I am incredibly blessed to have a group of men and women on whom I can call upon to help me grow as a mother. Yes, I did say men too. My husband is my greatest asset and strongest supporter in my network. He has a very easy going personality and always thinks before he reacts. I appreciate how much he balances my parenting techniques and he provides me with a new perspective on my children. He constantly thinks of special ways that he can spend time with each of our kids individually or together and he is always eager to help them when they are in need of a listening ear. 

There are other men who are friends of mine that I also look to for support. These individuals provide a male point of view on raising children and it is usually very different than a woman's point of view.  The main thing I have learned from these men is that it is of utmost importance to spend quality time with your children and don't sweat the small stuff. They remind me that my laundry will be there tomorrow but my children will only be young once. These men set good examples by putting aside their work, phones and other distractions to play and talk with their children on a regular basis. And yes, they are all active participants in the daily household tasks but they desire to build a strong relationship with their kids. 

Yesterday, I decided to make more of an effort to follow the lead of these strong men who support me. After my kids get home from school, it is now time for me to put away my work and turn off my computer. I am making a conscience decision to follow the lead of my children and play, listen, read, or snuggle with them. They are only young once and I want to enjoy it while I can. I am grateful for the lessons these men have taught me but most of all, I'm glad that they are part of my parenting network.