Rambling post is rambling... AKA "My name is Cathy and I'm a Party Pooper. Help me!"

[cathyteach2]

I always have great expectations of a nice, lazy and mellow summer. Back when the girls were toddlers, I vowed that they would not be among the throngs of over-programmed kids, activities every day, playdates every weekend, etc. I swore they would have lots of time just to play outside and have unstructured fun. I have great memories of running

Comments

[pondhopper]

The answer to that is fairly obvious to me. As a parent we develop an overwhelming sense of protection towards our children that goes with the territory. When it goes too far, it turns us into party poopers. I tended towards that myself. It's really hard to strike a balance between common sense and going overboard with the rules and hovering.
I think teaching that common sense to our kids is one of the best ways to lighten up ourselves.
:)
You're a good mom, Cathy!

[cathyteach2]

Thanks, Donna! I don't want to completely relax my protective instincts, but would love to kind of tone them down a bit. I want to be the "fun parent" once in a while. :)

[opalescence]

You're doing a wonderful job. Unfortunately, your children live in a completely different world than I did, than you did, and even than my two older kids did.

Have fun in my state!

[cathyteach2]

Thanks, Cindi! It's true, the world has changed in many ways, not for the better. Still, I don't want the girls growing up afraid of everything. They will miss out on too much that way. I need to relax for their sake and for my own. :)

[cathyteach2]

Oh! And I'd love it if we could meet up in NJ. It's always a busy time, but if possibly, it would be great to see you.Will have to see what the calendar looks like. :)

[opalescence]

Cathy, I would do just about anything in my power to meet you down there! If I have notice, it's best for the office since I am office manager. 856-470-8242