What I wish my girls would hear

I know my girls' hear my voice but I also know they tune out two-thirds of what I'm saying out. If they were really listening, I wouldn't I have to repeat myself 3 or 4 times before they act. I try to give them words of wisdom now and then but when I ask later do you remember what I said, they reply, "About what?" When I talk, they nod their heads but I'm pretty sure only about 15% is retained, and that's being generous. But oh how I wish they would really hear me, really take some of what I say and apply it. What I want them to hear is the things that matter. Things that could make their lives better.

For instance, to my 6 year old:

Play outside more. Forget about the TV and computer. If it's cold, put on a jacket and go ride your bike. Get out the sidewalk chalk or push your dollies in their stroller. Enjoy the day.

Color more. Paint more. Get out the playdough. Make more crafts, glue sticks are cheap.

Even if it takes you an hour to pick up, play Barbies, play babies and play dress-up! Now's your chance to use your imagination before it's not "cool" anymore.

Don't be afraid to dance or sing. God made music and he made you, so celebrate it!

Don't worry about your lost teeth and gaps in your smile. It makes you cute and it's easier than braces.

It's okay to wear holes in your knees and get some grass stains here and there. I may act irritated but I'm happy you're healthy and active and I wouldn't trade it for anything.

It's okay to take a nap once in a while. You're not going to miss anything too exciting and your evening will go much better.

Watch movies about princesses, heroes and animals. Forget about the scary ones that give you nightmares or the violent ones that poison your innocent mind.

Look forward to every day of elementary school. They'll be some of the best days of your life. Run hard at recess. Try all your food at lunch. Respect your teacher. Smile at your principal.

Don't talk to strangers but be polite when I introduce you to my friends.

When I say, "Don't run off." DON'T RUN OFF! Although you feel you're safe, you are an appendage of me and I'm not myself unless I can at least SEE you.

Don't be afraid to try new things. When I sign you up for a new class, just try it. You never know what you might be good at. Be happy to learn. You're a strong and athletic kid, embrace it!

Don't stop cuddling me, hugging me and wanting to sit with me. I cherish your hugs and the way you look at me. I love that you still need me and you're never too big for mommy's lap.

Love your big sisters, despite their moods sometimes. They adore you and would give their lives for you; they just sometimes have weird way of expressing it.

Forgive me and daddy when we get impatient and raise our voice. Forgive us when we don't make eye contact with you or listen to what you have to say. We make mistakes but love you more than life itself and you and what you have to say is important to us!

Be a little kid for as long as you can! Don't try so hard to be like the big kids. Life is easiest right now. Enjoy it!

Finally....be proud of who you are, be proud of how God made you, and always be thankful.

What I Wish My Girls Would Hear to be continued.....